What is the ruling on using alcohol as a solvent in the manufacture of dietary supplements and vitamin pills, knowing that the quantities used are very small and it is unknown whether they cause intoxication or not?
The summary of the ruling on using alcohol is that if it does not transform before mixing, it is impure (najis) and impermissible to use. If it is mixed with a pure substance and its quantity is less than two qullatain, it becomes impure. However, if it transforms during its manufacturing process into a non-intoxicating substance before being mixed, then it becomes pure and permissible to use. If it remains intoxicating until it is mixed as a solvent, then it is unlawful (haram) and impure (najis). The medicine or food becomes impure if the alcohol content is less than two qullatain. However, if it is not less than two qullatain, it does not become impure unless there is a lingering trace of alcohol in the medicine or food.
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
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