Scientific Opinion on the re-evaluation of iron oxides and hydroxides (E 172) as food additives

What was studied

EFSA could not complete an adequate safety assessment because of insufficient toxicology and unresolved genotoxicity, including red iron oxide data. Food additive oral assessment, not cosmetic efficacy or a blanket unsafe finding for dermal use. Redox state, particle size, grades and impurities prevent transfer between oxides. Other input CAS entries were not resolved.

Checked against the published abstract on Oct 1, 2026. Source 1 ↗Source 2 ↗