Ingredient · E172

Synthetic Iron Oxide

Source

Not animal-derived

Allergen

Role in food

Synthetic iron oxide is used to add color to foods, particularly in shades of …

What is Synthetic Iron Oxide?

Synthetic iron oxide is a mineral compound made in a laboratory. It is a form of iron oxide, a substance found naturally in rust and rocks, but produced industrially for food use. It is used as a colorant.

Is Synthetic Iron Oxide vegan?

Synthetic Iron Oxide is not animal-derived. Products that contain it can still include other animal-derived ingredients, so check the full ingredient list.

Is Synthetic Iron Oxide gluten-free?

It is a mineral compound and does not contain gluten.

Is Synthetic Iron Oxide a major allergen?

Not a major allergen.

What is Synthetic Iron Oxide used for?

Synthetic iron oxide is used to add color to foods, particularly in shades of red, yellow, black, and brown.

Is Synthetic Iron Oxide safe?

In the US, synthetic iron oxide is permitted for use as a color additive.

Why it's used

Synthetic iron oxide is used to add color to foods, particularly in shades of red, yellow, black, and brown. It is often found in processed meats like sausages and hot dogs, as well as in baking decorations and candies where a specific color is desired.

Health notes

In the US, synthetic iron oxide is permitted for use as a color additive. The FDA has evaluated its safety for this purpose. International bodies like JECFA and EFSA have also evaluated iron oxides. At typical levels used in food, it is not associated with adverse health effects. There are no widespread controversies regarding its use as a food colorant.

Allergen info

Not a major allergen. It is a mineral compound and does not contain gluten.

Foods that contain Synthetic Iron Oxide

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TONTON PIERROT Brochette Santa Claus Candy High in added sugars — 58% DV per serving 346kcal 3.7Protein 0.3Fat 82.9Carbs International Marketing Systems, Inc. Finest Belgian Chocolates Chocolate High in saturated fat — 35% DV per serving High in added sugars — 20% DV per serving 571kcal 7.1Protein 42.9Fat 42.9Carbs KERVAN USA LLC Gummi Berries Candy High in added sugars — 38% DV per serving 367kcal 3.3Protein 0Fat 90Carbs Wenner Bread Products Inc Doughnuts Cakes, Cupcakes, Snack Cakes High in saturated fat — 50% DV per serving 473kcal 5.5Protein 34.5Fat 38.2Carbs Monogram Food Solutions LLC Party Pack Hot Links Sausages, Hotdogs & Brats High in sodium — 25% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 20% DV per serving 268kcal 12.5Protein 19.6Fat 8.9Carbs Monogram Food Solutions LLC Red Hot Links Sausages, Hotdogs & Brats High in saturated fat — 20% DV per serving 250kcal 12.5Protein 19.6Fat 7.1Carbs Monogram Food Solutions LLC Mexican Flavor Hot Links, Mexican Sausages, Hotdogs & Brats High in sodium — 25% DV per serving High in saturated fat — 20% DV per serving 268kcal 12.5Protein 19.6Fat 8.9Carbs American Crafts LC Harvest Sprinkles, Harvest Baking Decorations & Dessert Toppings 375kcal 0Protein 0Fat 100Carbs American Crafts LC Oh Christmas Tree Sprinkles Baking Decorations & Dessert Toppings 375kcal 0Protein 0Fat 100Carbs Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. Rainbow Sprinkle Mix, Rainbow Baking Decorations & Dessert Toppings 375kcal 0Protein 0Fat 100Carbs Monogram Food Solutions LLC Red Hot Links, Red Hot Sausages, Hotdogs & Brats High in saturated fat — 20% DV per serving 250kcal 12.5Protein 19.6Fat 7.1Carbs Target Stores Snow Flurry Friends Cookie Decorating Kit, Snow Flurry Friends Cookies & Biscuits High in added sugars — 48% DV per serving 396kcal 4.2Protein 10.4Fat 72.9Carbs

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Red 40, Yellow 5, Yellow 6: What the Evidence Says →

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Last updated: September 28, 2026

Note: This site presents label data from USDA FoodData Central for general information. It is not medical advice. Check the package label; formulations change.