What is E173? Aluminium Explained
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E173 is Aluminium — a colour (mineral) used in sweets and confectionery, soft drinks.
What is E173 (Aluminium)?
E173 is Aluminium, a food additive classified as a colour that give food its colour. A colour (mineral) used in sweets and confectionery, soft drinks. You'll find it in sweets and confectionery, soft drinks, cake icing and many other packaged foods. Like every E-number, E173 has been authorised for use in food following an EFSA safety evaluation — though authorisation doesn't mean concern-free, as the safety section below explains.
Where is E173 found?
E173 (Aluminium) is found in sweets and confectionery, soft drinks, cake icing, jams and preserves, ready meals, desserts.
- sweets and confectionery
- soft drinks
- cake icing
- jams and preserves
- ready meals
- desserts
Is E173 safe?
E173 is authorised in the EU and UK but carries genuine concerns. For most people consuming Aluminium in typical quantities, health effects are unlikely — but the caution flag reflects either active scientific debate, mandatory warning labels, allergen status, or conditions attached to its authorisation.
EFSA opinion: Aluminium — status Some concerns.
Check the calorie content of foods containing E173. If you’re pregnant, see our pregnancy food safety guide.
Cleaner alternatives to E173
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E173 FAQs
What is E173 in food?
E173 is Aluminium — a colour (mineral) used in sweets and confectionery, soft drinks.
Is E173 safe to eat?
E173 is authorised in the EU and UK but carries genuine concerns. For most people consuming Aluminium in typical quantities, health effects are unlikely — but the caution flag reflects either active s
Is E173 vegan?
E173 (Aluminium) is vegan. It is derived from mineral, with no animal involvement in standard food production.
Is E173 halal?
E173 (Aluminium) is halal. It is derived from mineral, which involves no haram sources.
Related Colours additives
Also check: safe for cats? · safe for dogs? · calorie checker · medication interactions
Data: Open Food Facts (ODbL) · EFSA