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E 172Colours

Iron oxides and hydroxides

Characteristics

Additive NameIron oxides and hydroxides
E No.E 172
TypeIndividual Substance
In plain language

A natural mineral pigment used to give food red, yellow, brown, or black colour depending on the specific form. Approved for a very limited number of food categories, mainly cosmetic use on olive surfaces, salmon, and some decorative applications. Generally considered safe at authorised levels by EFSA and FDA. No significant health concerns at typical dietary exposure.

Conditions of Use

This additive is authorised to be used in the following 3 food categories:

4.1.1entire fresh fruit and vegetables
Maximum Level = 6 mg/kg
only as a contrast enhancer for marking citrus fruit, melons and pomegranates in order to: – repeat all or some of the mandatory information particulars required by the Union legislation and/or national law, and/or – provide on a voluntary basis brand name, production method, PLU-code, QR-code and/or barcode
4.2.4.1fruit and vegetable preparations excluding compote
Quantum satis (no max)
only seaweed-based fish roe analogues
9.2Processed fish and fishery products including molluscs and crustaceans
Quantum satis (no max)
only fish paste and crustacean paste

Source

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E 172 - Iron oxides and hydroxides | E-Number Information