surface colorant INS 175

Gold E175

metallic — Primarily metallic.

🇪🇺 EU: Approved
🇺🇸 USA: Approved
🇯🇵 Japan: Approved
🇦🇺 AU/NZ: Approved
🇨🇦 Canada: Approved
Scientific Name

Gold (metallic)

CAS: 7440-57-5

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?

Gold occurs naturally in Native gold nuggets and deposits and Gold-bearing quartz veins. Many people consume it daily without realizing it's also a listed food additive.

Beyond food, Gold 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, Gold 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. Must be pure gold.

🇯🇵

Japan (MHLW)

approved Cat: 既存添加物

Used traditionally in premium Japanese confectionery and sake

Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)

International Standard (JECFA)

Not specified (gold is chemically inert; virtually no absorption)

mg/kg body weight per day

European Standard (EFSA)

Not specified (negligible exposure; use restricted to external decoration)

Natural Occurrence

Gold is a precious metal that occurs naturally in pure metallic form. It is chemically inert and does not corrode. Food-grade gold is extremely pure (typically 22-24 karat) and hammered into ultra-thin sheets.

Native gold nuggets and depositsGold-bearing quartz veinsPlacer deposits (alluvial gold)As a trace element in seawater

Manufacturing

Method: refining and processing

Produced by refining gold from ores or recycled sources, then hammered into extremely thin sheets (gold leaf, typically 0.1-0.2 micrometers thick) or ground into fine powder or flakes. Food-grade gold must be at least 90% pure (22 karat), preferably 99.9% (24 karat).

Applications Beyond Food

Cosmetics

Used in luxury skincare products, face masks, and cosmetics for anti-aging claims and aesthetic appeal.

Medical

Used in some medications for rheumatoid arthritis (gold salts) and in dental restorations.

Industrial

Used in electronics, aerospace, dentistry, and as a conductor in various high-tech applications.

Household

Gold jewelry, decorative items, and investment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Gold (E175)?
Gold (E175) is a surface colorant used in food products. It is metallic and metallic. Gold is a precious metal that occurs naturally in pure metallic form. It is chemically inert and does not corrode. Food-grade gold is extremely pure (typically 22-24 karat) and hammered into ultra-thin sheets.
Where is Gold found naturally?
Gold is naturally found in Native gold nuggets and deposits, Gold-bearing quartz veins, Placer deposits (alluvial gold), As a trace element in seawater. Gold is a precious metal that occurs naturally in pure metallic form. It is chemically inert and does not corrode. Food-grade gold is extremely pure (typically 22-24 karat) and hammered into ultra-thin sheets.
What is the ADI for Gold?
The Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) for Gold is Not specified (gold is chemically inert; virtually no absorption) 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 Gold?
Gold 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 Gold the same as Aurum?
Yes, Gold is also known as Aurum, CI 77480, Edible gold, Gold leaf, 24-karat gold leaf. These are different names for the same substance.