E175: Gold
Main role: metallic surface coloring
Also listed as: edible gold, gold leaf
What is E175 (Gold)?
E175 is gold used as a decorative food coloring, commonly in very thin leaf or similar surface preparations. Its purpose is visual decoration. Food-grade identity and purity matter, and a gold-colored coating is not necessarily made from gold.
What does it do in food?
Its main role is metallic surface coloring. Coloring changes appearance. It does not establish the amount of fruit, vegetables, vitamins, or minerals in a serving. Different pigment preparations can have different processing properties and permitted uses.
Food and formulation examples
- Decorative sweets
- Food-grade gold leaf finishes
These examples describe formulation roles, not a list of unrestricted legal uses. Availability and permitted applications differ by country and food category.
Label names and ingredient questions
Look for E175, E 175, or the ingredient name. Related names and label terms include edible gold, gold leaf. A family code can cover more than one specified form; check the full declaration when the distinction matters.
Distinguish genuine food-grade gold from imitation metallic craft materials. The E number identifies a decorative additive, not a source of nutritional value.
Is E175 safe?
There is no meaningful personal risk estimate from an E number alone. Food-grade specifications, allowed uses, amount consumed, and individual circumstances all matter. The authorization record below gives the legal scope; it is not a claim that every possible use is appropriate.
A label identifies the ingredient but usually not its concentration. Calculating daily intake requires the amount in the food and the quantities eaten.
Authorization and conditions of use
The Great Britain food additive register lists E175 as Gold. This is an entry subject to its stated conditions, not unrestricted permission for every food. The record links to the applicable authorization terms. For an EU product, use the European Commission food additive database to check the relevant food category and limits. Other countries may use different names or rules.