Iron Powder
Elemental iron powders (reduced, electrolytic, carbonyl) are GRAS dietary iron sources used to fortify enriched grain products. Excess iron intake can be harmful, but typical fortification levels are safe.
What it is
Elemental iron in finely divided particulate form; used as a food fortificant ("reduced iron," "electrolytic iron") and oxygen scavenger.
Iron fortification of cereals/flour; oxygen scavenger in packaging.
Why it's flagged
- overdose risk if mass consumed (children)
- iron overload disorders
What regulators actually say
"The ingredient is used as a nutrient supplement as defined in §170.3(o)(20) of this chapter. Iron, including reduced iron and electrolytic iron... is generally recognized as safe."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
Iron and reduced/electrolytic iron permitted as nutrient supplements per 21 CFR 184.1375 and as standardized in enriched flour/cereals.
European Union — EFSA
Iron salts authorized as nutrient sources in EU food law.
Scan it before you buy it
Get Ube on iOS or Android — point at any barcode, see what's actually in there.
Get the app