What is E172?
E172 is Iron Oxides and Hydroxides — mineral pigments produced synthetically, used as a food colouring to help add or restore colour to foods and drinks.
What is E172 (Iron Oxides and Hydroxides)?
E172 is the E-number for iron oxides and hydroxides, one of the food colourings group of food additives (E100–E199). Additives in this group add or restore colour to foods and drinks. Mineral pigments produced synthetically. Like every E-number, E172 has been evaluated and authorised for use in food in the European Union — the 'E' literally stands for Europe, and a number is only granted after a safety assessment. That authorisation doesn't mean every additive suits every diet or that all concerns are settled, which is why we break down the safety, vegan, vegetarian and halal status of E172 in detail below.
Where is E172 found?
E172 is typically used in sweets, soft drinks, desserts, ice cream, sauces and snacks. You'll find it listed in the ingredients either by its E-number (E172) or by its full name, iron oxides and hydroxides. Common foods that may contain E172 include:
- Sweets
- Soft drinks
- Desserts
- Ice cream
- Sauces and snacks
Full guide: foods containing E172 and how to spot it on labels →
Is E172 safe?
E172 is considered safe. It is authorised across the EU, UK and US, and safety evaluations by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) have not identified health concerns at the levels used in food. For most people there is no reason to avoid E172.
EFSA status: Authorised in the EU — no safety concern at current levels of use
Source: European Food Safety Authority
Is E172 vegan?
E172 is vegan. Mineral pigments produced synthetically, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Full vegan status guide for E172 →Is E172 halal?
E172 is halal. Mineral pigments produced synthetically, with no haram source involved.
Full halal status guide for E172 →Frequently Asked Questions
What is E172 in food?
E172 is Iron Oxides and Hydroxides — mineral pigments produced synthetically, used as a food colouring to help add or restore colour to foods and drinks.
Is E172 safe to eat?
Yes. E172 is authorised in the EU, UK and US, and EFSA evaluations found no health concern at normal food levels.
Is E172 vegan?
E172 is vegan. Mineral pigments produced synthetically, with no animal involvement in standard production.
Is E172 halal?
E172 is halal. Mineral pigments produced synthetically, with no haram source involved.
Also check: is this ingredient safe for cats? · safe for dogs? · check the calorie content of foods containing this
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Additive data sourced from Open Food Facts (ODbL licence) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).