The permissibility of carmine, a red dye derived from insects, is a subject of debate among Islamic scholars. The Maliki school of thought argues that there is no explicit text in the Quran or Hadith forbidding the consumption of insects, and thus considers them halal. On the other hand, the Hanafi, Shafi’i, and Hanbali schools categorize insects as habais (impure) and therefore deem them haram or at least disliked (makruh).
Contemporary scholars have different opinions on carmine’s permissibility. Some argue that since carmine is derived from insects, it is inherently haram. Others, however, suggest that carmine, being chemically processed, may not retain the characteristics of the original insect and could be permissible if it poses no health risks. A minority view even holds that consuming the insect itself could be halal, thereby making carmine permissible.
Given these differing opinions, it is advisable to be cautious and avoid carmine when possible, especially considering the potential association with insects.