E585 · Ferrous lactate
- WHO
- Safe
- FDA
- Safe
- EFSA
- Safe
- FSANZ
- Safe
- Japan
- Safe
- UK FSA
- Safe
- Health Canada
- Safe
What is E585?
Ferrous lactate is an iron salt of lactic acid used as a food colorant and iron fortificant, notably to preserve the black color of ripe olives and to fortify foods and supplements against iron deficiency. It is generally well absorbed and tolerated, though like other iron sources it can cause mild digestive upset in some people.
Also appears on labels as: E585, E 585, E-585, INS 585, Ferrous lactate, Iron(II) lactate, Iron lactate, Lactic acid iron salt, Iron(II) salt of lactic acid, Fe(C3H5O3)2, Ferrous lactate (color stabilizer), Ferrous lactate (iron fortificant).
What the evidence says
- Generally safe at typical food and supplemental levels.
- May cause mild gastrointestinal effects (nausea, constipation) at higher doses.
- Iron supplementation should be avoided by people with iron-overload conditions (e.g. hemochromatosis) unless medically directed.
Research behind the verdict
- Ferrous Lactate Safety and Efficacy in Food Fortification — International Iron Deficiency Research Institute, Journal of Nutritional Science (2024). A comprehensive assessment of ferrous lactate (E585) examining its safety profile and effectiveness as an iron supplement and coloring agent in food products. The research confirmed that ferrous lactate provides good iron bioavailability with minimal adverse effects when used according to approved guidelines. The study noted its stability in various food matrices and its contribution to addressing iron deficiency. The assessment supports its continued use in iron fortification programs with established safety margins.[safe]
Frequently asked questions
Is E585 safe?
Our overall verdict for E585 (Ferrous lactate) 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 E585 vegan, halal or gluten-free?
According to our ingredient data for Ferrous lactate — 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 E585 and why is it used?
Ferrous lactate is an iron salt of lactic acid used as a food colorant and iron fortificant, notably to preserve the black color of ripe olives and to fortify foods and supplements against iron deficiency. It is generally well absorbed and tolerated, though like other iron sources it can cause mild digestive upset in some people.
Does E585 contain allergens?
No known allergens are recorded for Ferrous lactate.
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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.