surface colorant INS 173

Aluminium E173

metallic — Primarily metallic.

🇪🇺 EU: Approved

🇺🇸 USA: Banned

🇯🇵 Japan: Approved

🇦🇺 AU/NZ: Banned

🇨🇦 Canada: Approved

Scientific Name

Aluminium (metallic)

CAS: 7429-90-5

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?

Aluminium occurs naturally in Bauxite ore (aluminium oxide) and Feldspar minerals. Many people consume it daily without realizing it's also a listed food additive.

Beyond food, Aluminium is also used in cosmetics, medicine, industrial applications, household products. Its versatility makes it one of the most multi-purpose chemical compounds in everyday life.

Regulatory opinions differ: Aluminium is approved in EU, JAPAN, CANADA but banned in USA. This reflects different risk assessment philosophies between regions.

Detailed Regulatory Assessment

🇪🇺

European Union (EFSA)

approved Max: quantum satis mg/kg

Only for external decoration of confectionery and cake decorations. Not permitted for internal use.

Official EFSA Link

🇺🇸

United States (FDA)

banned

Not approved for use as a food colorant in the United States

🇯🇵

Japan (MHLW)

approved Cat: 既存添加物

Restricted to external surface decoration only

Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)

International Standard (JECFA)

Not specified (limited oral absorption; use restricted to surface decoration)

mg/kg body weight per day

European Standard (EFSA)

Not specified (minimal exposure due to external use only)

Natural Occurrence

Aluminium is the most abundant metal in Earth's crust but never occurs naturally in pure metallic form. Food-grade metallic aluminium is produced industrially from bauxite ore.

Bauxite ore (aluminium oxide)Feldspar mineralsClay minerals

Manufacturing

Method: industrial extraction

Produced through the Hall-Héroult process: extracting aluminium from bauxite ore through electrolysis. The metal is then ground into fine powder or flakes for use as a surface colorant in food decoration.

Applications Beyond Food

Cosmetics

Used in eye shadows, nail polish, and other cosmetics for metallic/shimmering effects.

Medical

Used as a coating for pills and tablets for visual appeal.

Industrial

Widely used in construction, transportation, packaging (foil), electrical applications, and aerospace.

Household

Aluminium foil, cooking utensils, beverage cans.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Aluminium (E173)?

Aluminium (E173) is a surface colorant used in food products. It is metallic and metallic. Aluminium is the most abundant metal in Earth's crust but never occurs naturally in pure metallic form. Food-grade metallic aluminium is produced industrially from bauxite ore.

Is Aluminium banned in any country?

Aluminium is banned in USA, Australia/NZ. Regulatory status varies by country. Always check with your local food regulatory authority for current information.

Where is Aluminium found naturally?

Aluminium is naturally found in Bauxite ore (aluminium oxide), Feldspar minerals, Clay minerals. Aluminium is the most abundant metal in Earth's crust but never occurs naturally in pure metallic form. Food-grade metallic aluminium is produced industrially from bauxite ore.

What is the ADI for Aluminium?

The Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) for Aluminium is Not specified (limited oral absorption; use restricted to surface decoration) 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 Aluminium?

Aluminium is used in various food categories including Decorations, coatings and fillings (external coating only). It is used as a surface colorant in these products.

Is Aluminium the same as Aluminum?

Yes, Aluminium is also known as Aluminum, CI 77000, Aluminium powder, Metallic aluminium. These are different names for the same substance.

Primary Research & Evidence