Ferrous gluconate
Learn what Ferrous gluconate (E579) is, why it's added to food, whether it's safe, and which products contain it.
Low concernWhat is Ferrous gluconate?
A food additive used as a preservative, acidity regulator, and color fixer, commonly used in darkening olives. It is the iron salt of gluconic acid. It is added to some products like canned vegetables in vinegar, brine, oil, or soy sauce. It is also used in some dietary supplements because it is a source of iron.
Why is Ferrous gluconate added to food?
Ferrous gluconate (E579) is a preservative commonly found in: Canned vegetables, oil, soy sauce.
Permitted quantity: The maximum allowable daily intake for humans is up to 0.8 mg/kg body weight.
Is Ferrous gluconate safe?
Low concern
No side effects have been reported at the quantities used in food.
Is Ferrous gluconate banned anywhere?
✓ Not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
Common foods that contain Ferrous gluconate
- Canned vegetables
- oil
- soy sauce
How to spot Ferrous gluconate on labels
Look for any of these names in the ingredients list:
- E579
- Ferrous gluconate
Common misspellings to watch for:
- ferrous gluconate
- ferrous glueonate
- terrous gluconate
- ferrous qluconate
- ferrou$ gluconate
- ierrous gluconate
- ferrous glucondte
Better alternatives
• People with excess iron in the body, such as those with hemochromatosis, should avoid products containing ferrous gluconate. • Not recommended in cases of severe liver or kidney failure, as iron may overload these organs. • Excessive use may lead to adverse effects such as constipation, abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting. • Avoid taking it simultaneously with other iron supplements or medications that affect iron absorption.
Also known as
- ferrous gluconate
- ferrous glueonate
- terrous gluconate
- ferrous qluconate
- ferrou$ gluconate
- ierrous gluconate
- ferrous glucondte
Scan products with BioBrief
Not sure if a product contains Ferrous gluconate? BioBrief scans the barcode and instantly shows you every additive in the ingredients list — including E579 — with a plain-language explanation.
Frequently asked questions about Ferrous gluconate
- Is Ferrous gluconate safe to eat?
- No side effects have been reported at the quantities used in food.
- Is Ferrous gluconate banned anywhere?
- Ferrous gluconate is not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
- How do I spot Ferrous gluconate on a food label?
- Look for E579, Ferrous gluconate in the ingredients list. It may also appear as: ferrous gluconate, ferrous glueonate, terrous gluconate.
Ingredients change. Always check the actual product label before purchasing. Information on this page is for educational purposes only.