Foods Containing E172 (Iron Oxides and Hydroxides)
E172 (Iron Oxides and Hydroxides) is a colour (mineral) used in sweets and confectionery, soft drinks. Here are the foods where you'll find it on the label.
Common foods that contain E172
- sweets and confectionery
- soft drinks
- cake icing
- jams and preserves
- ready meals
- desserts
In the UK and EU, E172 must be declared either as "E172" or as "Iron Oxides and Hydroxides" in the ingredients list.
Is E172 safe?
EFSA has reviewed E172 and considers it safe for human consumption at the levels used in food. No credible evidence links Iron Oxides and Hydroxides to harm at normal dietary intakes.
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Reduce or replace E172
Products relevant to E172 and your dietary choices
Natural Food Colouring
Plant-based and fruit-extract alternatives to synthetic colours.
Natural Food Dyes
Gel and powder colours from natural sources.
Food Intolerance Test
Identify if food colours or other additives are affecting you.
Frequently asked questions
What foods contain E172?
E172 (Iron Oxides and Hydroxides) is commonly found in sweets and confectionery, soft drinks, cake icing, jams and preserves, ready meals. It must be declared on UK/EU labels as either "E172" or "Iron Oxides and Hydroxides".
Is E172 safe?
EFSA has reviewed E172 and considers it safe for human consumption at the levels used in food. No credible evidence links Iron Oxides and Hydroxides to harm at normal dietary intakes.
Is E172 vegan?
E172 is always vegan: mineral.
Data: Open Food Facts (ODbL) · EFSA