surface colorant INS 174

Silver E174

metallic — Primarily metallic.

🇪🇺 EU: Approved

🇺🇸 USA: Approved

🇯🇵 Japan: Approved

🇦🇺 AU/NZ: Approved

🇨🇦 Canada: Approved

Scientific Name

Silver (metallic)

CAS: 7440-22-4

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?

Silver occurs naturally in Native silver deposits and Silver ore (argentite, chlorargyrite). Many people consume it daily without realizing it's also a listed food additive.

Beyond food, Silver 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.

In the EU, Silver 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

Only for external decoration of confectionery, chocolate products, and liqueurs. Decorative use only.

Official EFSA Link

🇺🇸

United States (FDA)

approved Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) for decorative purposes

Approved only for external decoration, not for general consumption

🇯🇵

Japan (MHLW)

approved Cat: 既存添加物

Used traditionally in Japanese confectionery

Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)

International Standard (JECFA)

Not specified (very limited absorption; use restricted to external decoration)

mg/kg body weight per day

European Standard (EFSA)

Not specified (negligible exposure due to decorative use only)

Natural Occurrence

Silver is a precious metal that occurs naturally in pure metallic form and in various ores. Food-grade silver is highly purified metallic silver, often in the form of very thin leaf or powder.

Native silver depositsSilver ore (argentite, chlorargyrite)As a byproduct of copper, gold, lead, and zinc mining

Manufacturing

Method: refining and processing

Produced by refining silver from ores or recycled sources, then hammered into extremely thin sheets (silver leaf) or ground into fine powder. Food-grade silver must be at least 99.9% pure.

Applications Beyond Food

Cosmetics

Used in luxury skincare products and cosmetics for antimicrobial properties and aesthetic appeal.

Medical

Used in wound dressings and antimicrobial medical devices (silver sulfadiazine).

Industrial

Used in electronics, solar panels, mirrors, photography, and antimicrobial coatings.

Household

Silver jewelry, tableware, and decorative items.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Silver (E174)?

Silver (E174) is a surface colorant used in food products. It is metallic and metallic. Silver is a precious metal that occurs naturally in pure metallic form and in various ores. Food-grade silver is highly purified metallic silver, often in the form of very thin leaf or powder.

Where is Silver found naturally?

Silver is naturally found in Native silver deposits, Silver ore (argentite, chlorargyrite), As a byproduct of copper, gold, lead, and zinc mining. Silver is a precious metal that occurs naturally in pure metallic form and in various ores. Food-grade silver is highly purified metallic silver, often in the form of very thin leaf or powder.

What is the ADI for Silver?

The Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) for Silver is Not specified (very limited absorption; use restricted to external 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 Silver?

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

Is Silver the same as Argentum?

Yes, Silver is also known as Argentum, CI 77820, Edible silver, Silver leaf, Vark/Varak (Indian silver leaf). These are different names for the same substance.