E-code guide
E172Iron Oxides
HalalColorant
E172

Iron Oxides

Yellow/red/black colors

SANHA, JAKIM Handbook 2010, and MUIS all classify this as halal.
Based on 3 cited authorities. Confidence: medium.

What authorities say

3 authorities on record
3say Halal
Saying Halal3 of 3
2
JAKIM Handbook 2010
Halal
3
MUIS
MUIS Food Additive Listing (2016): Yellow, red, orange, brown and black colouring from naturally occurring pigments or iron.

Why this verdict

E172 is iron oxides and hydroxides, mineral pigments giving red, yellow, and black colours to confectionery, coatings, and decorative foods. SANHA, JAKIM Handbook 2010, and MUIS all classify E172 as halal. MUIS describes it as a colouring from naturally occurring pigments or iron. E172 is halal.

Food-safety note
Permitted as food colours in Australia and New Zealand under the Food Standards Code (Schedule 15), subject to maximum permitted levels. Mineral pigments (iron oxides and hydroxides); regarded as safe at permitted levels. (Source: FSANZ; Food Standards Code Schedule 15.)

Common questions

Is E172 halal?

Iron Oxides (E172) is classified halal. SANHA, JAKIM Handbook 2010, and MUIS classify it as halal.

What is E172 made from?

Iron Oxides (E172) is a mineral.

Last reviewed by the HalalHQ research team in June 2026.