iron oxides
Basic Information
| Field | Content |
|---|---|
| Chinese name | iron oxides |
| English name | iron oxides |
| INS/E number | INS 172 |
| Functional class | Colour |
| Year adopted | To be added. |
| Approved by | Australia/New Zealand (FSANZ), European Union (EFSA) |
What is it?
Iron oxides (INS 172) are a group of inorganic oxide pigments used for food colouring, including black, red and yellow shades with natural mineral tones, mainly for surface decoration and coatings.
Source
Industrial：化学沉淀、氧化、煅烧制得符合食品级纯度的氧化铁颜料
Why is it used?
- Provides stable red/yellow/black mineral tones
- Light- and heat-stable, non-fading
- Used in coatings and surface decoration
- Suitable for chocolate and confectionery
- Harmonises with natural food hues
Common Foods
- Sugar coatings and icing
- Confectionery
- Chocolate products
- Seasonings
- Surface-decorated foods
Safety
ADI (Acceptable Daily Intake)：Not applicable (evaluated, no limit set)
Concerns：
- 需严格控制重金属杂质
- 着色限于表面、不可大量摄入
Usage Standard
China：GB 2760（氧化铁类，按具体色别）
International：
- EU Regulation 1333/2008 Annex II (E 172)
- FDA 21 CFR 73.200 (Iron oxides)
- Codex GSFA (INS 172)
- FSANZ Food Standards Code (Iron oxide, 172)
In a nutshell
Iron oxides are light- and heat-stable mineral food colours that are relatively safe but require impurity control.
Consumer Advice
Iron oxides are mineral-based natural colourings available in red, yellow and black shades. They are approved in the European Union (E172) and China for colouring sweets and cheese coatings. They are chemically stable, are barely absorbed by the body and are considered safe at approved levels.
Dietary Restrictions
- Vegan: ✅
- Halal: ✅
- Kosher: ✅
Allergens
✅ Free from common allergens
Disclaimer
The information provided here is for discussion and educational purposes only. It is not medical advice or an evaluation/rating of any product or ingredient. This information may not apply to you; before using or taking any action, you should contact the manufacturer, vendor, medical, dietary, fitness, or other professionals. If you use any information provided here, you do so at your own risk.