E172 · Iron oxides and hydroxides
- WHO
- Safe
- FDA
- Safe
- EFSA
- Safe
- FSANZ
- Safe
- Japan
- Safe
- UK FSA
- Safe
- Health Canada
- Safe
What is E172?
Iron oxides and hydroxides are naturally occurring or synthetically produced mineral pigments used as food colorants (E172), giving red, yellow, orange, brown, or black hues. They are commonly used to color the coatings of confectionery, cured-meat casings, and some baked goods. They are considered safe by EFSA and FDA at approved purity and usage levels, and pass through the body largely without being absorbed.
Also appears on labels as: Iron oxides, Iron hydroxides, Iron oxide pigments, Iron oxide red, Iron oxide yellow, Iron oxide black, Ferric oxide, Ferrous oxide, E172, E 172, E-172, E172(i).
What the evidence says
- EFSA has noted uncertainty around impurity limits (e.g. trace heavy metals) in some iron oxide preparations, which is addressed through purity specifications in regulation.
- Generally recognized as safe at typical food-use levels.
Research behind the verdict
- Iron Oxides and Hydroxides (E172) – Safety Review — EFSA Panel on Food Additives, EFSA Journal (2015). Used as pigments; EFSA ADI not specified; considered safe; concern only for nanoparticle forms.[safe_in_moderation]
Frequently asked questions
Is E172 safe?
Our overall verdict for E172 (Iron oxides and hydroxides) is “Safe”, based on the most cautious of the major regulators’ positions — FDA: safe; WHO: safe; EFSA: safe; FSANZ: safe; Japan: safe; UK FSA: safe; Health Canada: safe.
Is E172 vegan, halal or gluten-free?
According to our ingredient data for Iron oxides and hydroxides — vegan: yes, vegetarian: yes, halal: yes, kosher: yes, gluten-free: yes, dairy-free: yes. Manufacturing sources can vary between products; check the label if it matters to you.
What is E172 and why is it used?
Iron oxides and hydroxides are naturally occurring or synthetically produced mineral pigments used as food colorants (E172), giving red, yellow, orange, brown, or black hues. They are commonly used to color the coatings of confectionery, cured-meat casings, and some baked goods. They are considered safe by EFSA and FDA at approved purity and usage levels, and pass through the body largely without being absorbed.
Does E172 contain allergens?
No known allergens are recorded for Iron oxides and hydroxides.
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This page summarises publicly available regulatory assessments and research. It is general information, not medical advice. Sources: EFSA, FDA, WHO and the studies linked above.