E 579 Ferrous gluconate

What is E 579?

E 579 is the E number of Ferrous gluconate. Iron salt permitted only for black olives, to stabilise their dark colour.

What is E 579 used for?

E 579 belongs to the group "Other additives" and is used as colour.

• Colour: Colours add or restore colour in a food.

Which foods may contain E 579?

According to the European Commission's database, E 579 may be used in 2 food categories and subcategories, each only in specific products and usually with maximum levels. The categories come from these areas:

• Fruit and vegetables

Is E 579 vegan?

Usually yes: the substance is normally made from plant, mineral or synthetic raw materials or with microorganisms. In individual cases, only the manufacturer or a vegan label can give certainty.

Is E 579 linked to genetic engineering?

Genetic engineering: May be obtained from plants for which genetically modified varieties exist, such as soya, maize, rapeseed or sugar beet. If the substance comes from a GM plant, this must be stated on the label in the EU (Regulation (EC) No 1829/2003).

Genetic engineering: May be produced with microorganisms that can be genetically modified. If a substance is only produced with the help of genetically modified microorganisms, EU law does not require it to be labelled.

In food labelled "ohne Gentechnik" and in organic food, such substances from or by genetically modified organisms are excluded in principle.

How does E 579 appear on the label?

In the list of ingredients, the substance appears with its function, followed by the E number or the name, for example "Colour: E 579" or "Colour: Ferrous gluconate".