Yes — Halal

INS 172

food colors

Iron Oxides and Hydroxides

Also known as: CI 77491CI 77492CI 77499Iron OxidesIron Hydroxides E172 (EU/UK)

Status

Halal

Function

Red, yellow, orange, brown or black food coloring

Halal

Is INS 172 (Iron Oxides and Hydroxides) halal?

Generally accepted as halal. Typically derived from plant or synthetic sources with no prohibited ingredients.

What to do

Safe to buy. This additive is permissible under Islamic dietary law.

See which foods use it →

Where is INS 172 used?

INS (International Numbering System) codes are maintained by the Codex Alimentarius Commission and used on food labels in many countries outside the EU. You will commonly see INS 172 on packaging from:

AustraliaNew ZealandMalaysiaSingaporeIndonesiaIndiaSaudi ArabiaUAEGCC countries

In the EU and UK, the same additive appears as E172. The ingredient, halal status, and sourcing considerations are identical — only the labelling system differs.

EU / UK equivalent: E172

INS 172 and E172 refer to the same food additive — Iron Oxides and Hydroxides. If you are checking a product purchased in the UK or Europe, look for E172 on the label instead.

See full E172 halal guide →

About INS 172

Iron is a metal. Iron oxide and iron hydroxides are inorganic chemicals.

Sources / Derived From

synthetic inorganic pigments (iron and oxygen)

Foods that commonly contain INS 172

red/brown confectionery coatingsbiscuitspet foodcosmetics

Frequently Asked Questions

Is INS 172 (Iron Oxides and Hydroxides) halal?

INS 172 (Iron Oxides and Hydroxides) is classified as Halal. Generally accepted as halal. Typically derived from plant or synthetic sources with no prohibited ingredients.

What is INS 172 used for?

INS 172 is used as a red, yellow, orange, brown or black food coloring in food products.

What is the difference between INS 172 and E172?

INS 172 and E172 are the same additive — Iron Oxides and Hydroxides. INS numbers are used on food labels in Australia, New Zealand, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, India, and GCC countries. The E-number system (E172) is used in EU and UK markets. The halal status is identical regardless of which label system is used.

What foods contain INS 172?

INS 172 (Iron Oxides and Hydroxides) is commonly found in: red/brown confectionery coatings, biscuits, pet food, cosmetics.

What is INS 172 made from?

INS 172 can be derived from: synthetic inorganic pigments (iron and oxygen).

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