color retention agent INS 579

Ferrous Gluconate E579

iron source, food fortification — Primarily fermentation-derived.

🇪🇺 EU: Approved

🇺🇸 USA: Approved

🇯🇵 Japan: Approved

🇦🇺 AU/NZ: Approved

🇨🇦 Canada: Approved

Scientific Name

Iron(II) D-gluconate (C12H22FeO14)

CAS: 299-29-6

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?

Ferrous Gluconate is produced through fermentation — the same biological process used to make bread, beer, and yogurt.

Beyond food, Ferrous Gluconate 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.

Detailed Regulatory Assessment

🇪🇺

European Union (EFSA)

approved Max: varies by category (typically limited levels) mg/kg

Permitted as color retention agent and iron source in specific food categories including ripe olives.

Official EFSA Link

🇺🇸

United States (FDA)

approved GRAS

Used as nutrient supplement and color retention agent in ripe olives.

🇯🇵

Japan (MHLW)

approved Cat: 指定添加物

Compliant with Japanese food sanitation law.

Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI)

International Standard (JECFA)

0.8 mg/kg bw/day (as iron, for all iron compounds)

mg/kg body weight per day

European Standard (EFSA)

not specified (safe at current use levels for fortification)

Natural Occurrence

This additive is not known to occur naturally in significant quantities.

Manufacturing

Method: neutralization

Produced by neutralizing gluconic acid (from glucose fermentation) with ferrous carbonate or ferrous hydroxide. The resulting ferrous gluconate is purified and may be spray-dried or crystallized.

Applications Beyond Food

Cosmetics

Rarely used.

Medical

Iron supplement for treating iron-deficiency anemia (gentler than ferrous sulfate).

Industrial

Water treatment (prevents yellow staining from iron).

Household

Iron supplement tablets.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Ferrous Gluconate (E579)?

Ferrous Gluconate (E579) is a color retention agent used in food products. It is iron source, food fortification and fermentation-derived. Ferrous gluconate does not occur naturally but is derived from gluconic acid, which occurs in honey and fruits.

What is the ADI for Ferrous Gluconate?

The Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) for Ferrous Gluconate is 0.8 mg/kg bw/day (as iron, for all iron compounds) 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 Ferrous Gluconate?

Ferrous Gluconate is used in various food categories including Vegetables in vinegar, brine or oil (includes olives), Dietary supplements. It is used as a color retention agent in these products.

Is Ferrous Gluconate the same as Iron gluconate?

Yes, Ferrous Gluconate is also known as Iron gluconate, Ferrous salt of gluconic acid. These are different names for the same substance.

Primary Research & Evidence