What is E172?

E172 (Iron oxides and hydroxides) is a colours food additive. Natural mineral pigments, yellow/red/black colours. E172 sits in the E100–E199 series, which in the EU classification mainly covers colours.

What is E172 used for?

E172 belongs to the colours group. Colours are added to give or restore colour to food. Some are natural, like curcumin from turmeric; some synthetic dyes are debated and require warning labels in the EU.

Is E172 safe?

E172 is considered safe at the levels used in food and is approved for use in the EU. “Safe” means it is approved in the EU and regarded as safe at the levels used in food.

How E172 appears on labels

On food packaging you'll find E172 either as the number “E172” or by the name “Iron oxides and hydroxides” in the ingredient list, often after its function. Ingredients are listed in descending order by weight, so an additive near the end is present only in small amounts.

Is E172 vegan?

Yes, E172 is suitable for vegans.