colour INS 172

Iron Oxides and Hydroxides E172

inorganic — Primarily mineral/metallic.

🇪🇺 EU: Approved

🇺🇸 USA: Approved

🇯🇵 Japan: Approved

🇦🇺 AU/NZ: Approved

🇨🇦 Canada: Approved

Scientific Name

Iron oxides and iron hydroxides

CAS: 1309-37-1, 1332-37-2, 51274-00-1

Data verified: 2026-04-04

Factual Regulatory Reference

This database provides factual regulatory information compiled from official government sources. It does not constitute medical, nutritional, or safety advice. Regulatory status varies by country and is subject to change. Always refer to your local regulatory authority for the most current information.

? Did You Know?

Iron Oxides and Hydroxides occurs naturally in Hematite (Fe2O3) - red iron ore and Magnetite (Fe3O4) - black iron ore. Many people consume it daily without realizing it's also a listed food additive.

Beyond food, Iron Oxides and Hydroxides is also used in cosmetics, medicine, industrial applications. Its versatility makes it one of the most multi-purpose chemical compounds in everyday life.

In the EU, Iron Oxides and Hydroxides has a "quantum satis" authorization — Latin for "as much as needed." This means there's no specific maximum limit; manufacturers use only what's technologically necessary.

Detailed Regulatory Assessment

🇪🇺

European Union (EFSA)

approved Max: quantum satis mg/kg

Approved for use in various food categories. Not permitted in foods where coloring is prohibited.

Official EFSA Link

🇺🇸

United States (FDA)

approved Exempt from certification

Not to exceed 0.1% by weight in sausage casings

🇯🇵

Japan (MHLW)

approved Cat: 既存添加物

Compliant with Japanese food sanitation law.

Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)

International Standard (JECFA)

Not specified (no safety concerns at current use levels)

mg/kg body weight per day

European Standard (EFSA)

Not specified (acceptable at current use levels)

Natural Occurrence

Naturally occurring minerals found abundantly in iron ore deposits. The different colors (red, yellow, black, brown) depend on the oxidation state and hydration of the iron.

Hematite (Fe2O3) - red iron oreMagnetite (Fe3O4) - black iron oreGoethite (FeO(OH)) - yellow/brown iron oreRust (natural oxidation of iron)

Manufacturing

Method: industrial synthesis or natural extraction

Food-grade iron oxides are typically produced synthetically through controlled oxidation of iron salts or by calcination of iron compounds. The production process ensures particle size, purity, and specific color (red, yellow, or black).

Applications Beyond Food

Cosmetics

Widely used in makeup, lipstick, eye shadow, and foundation as a colorant. One of the safest colorants for cosmetics.

Medical

Used as a colorant in tablets and capsules. Also used in iron supplements.

Industrial

Used in paints, pigments, ceramics, construction materials, and magnetic recording media.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Iron Oxides and Hydroxides (E172)?

Iron Oxides and Hydroxides (E172) is a colour used in food products. It is inorganic and mineral/metallic. Naturally occurring minerals found abundantly in iron ore deposits. The different colors (red, yellow, black, brown) depend on the oxidation state and hydration of the iron.

Where is Iron Oxides and Hydroxides found naturally?

Iron Oxides and Hydroxides is naturally found in Hematite (Fe2O3) - red iron ore, Magnetite (Fe3O4) - black iron ore, Goethite (FeO(OH)) - yellow/brown iron ore, Rust (natural oxidation of iron). Naturally occurring minerals found abundantly in iron ore deposits. The different colors (red, yellow, black, brown) depend on the oxidation state and hydration of the iron.

What is the ADI for Iron Oxides and Hydroxides?

The Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) for Iron Oxides and Hydroxides is Not specified (no safety concerns at current use levels) as established by JECFA (Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives). ADI represents the amount that can be consumed daily over a lifetime without appreciable health risk.

What foods contain Iron Oxides and Hydroxides?

Iron Oxides and Hydroxides is used in various food categories including Other confectionery including breath refreshening microsweets, Decorations, coatings and fillings. It is used as a colour in these products.

Is Iron Oxides and Hydroxides the same as Iron Oxide Red (CI 77491)?

Yes, Iron Oxides and Hydroxides is also known as Iron Oxide Red (CI 77491), Iron Oxide Yellow (CI 77492), Iron Oxide Black (CI 77499), Rust, Ferric Oxide. These are different names for the same substance.