What is E579?
E579 is Ferrous gluconate, a food additive used as a colour (food color). Used to keep black olives dark.
Also written as: INS 579, E-579, E 579. INS is the international numbering system used outside Europe, including on labels in Asia, Australia and the Middle East.
What to do
No action needed for this additive. Check the rest of the ingredient list, and remember that meat products still need proper halal slaughter.
Is E579 vegetarian or vegan?
Yes. E579 (Ferrous gluconate) is normally made from plant, mineral, microbial or synthetic sources, so it is suitable for vegetarians and vegans.
Why we classify it this way
Halal Used to keep black olives dark.
Basis: No concern found. Made from plants, minerals, fermentation or synthesis, or from a permitted animal product. Nothing in normal production raises a pork, alcohol, insect or slaughter question.
No external reference is listed for this record yet.
Classification audited 3 November 2026. It has not been reviewed by a scholar. How classifications work · Suggest a correction
Frequently asked questions
Is E579 halal?
E579 (Ferrous gluconate) is halal. Used to keep black olives dark.
What is E579 made from?
Iron and gluconic acid (fermentation).
What is E579 used for?
E579 is used as a colour, typically in sweets, soft drinks, desserts, sauces and snacks.
What should I do if a product contains E579?
No action needed for this additive. Check the rest of the ingredient list, and remember that meat products still need proper halal slaughter.
Is E579 vegetarian or vegan?
Yes. E579 (Ferrous gluconate) is normally made from plant, mineral, microbial or synthetic sources, so it is suitable for vegetarians and vegans.