E 173 - Aluminium

Last updated: 22.01.2018

The element aluminum is known to everyone and can be found in every household – either as aluminum foil or as a cooking pot. However, it is hardly known that aluminum under the designation E 173 also enters our food as a food coloring agent to color foods silvery gray.

E 173 - Aluminium

Origin

Aluminum is the third most abundant element in the world. Industrially profitable aluminum can only be obtained from bauxite. In this process, aluminum is produced through an electrolytic process.

Usage

E 173 may only be used very restrictively. The substance is only allowed for use in coatings for confectionery and cake glazes.

Risks

E 173 is generally considered safe when consumed in small doses. Larger amounts are also generally excreted without problems by the kidneys, but people with kidney diseases should be cautious as it can lead to accumulation in the human body. In connection with acids, E 173 is particularly easily absorbed by the body; therefore, acidic foods should not be stored in aluminum cookware either. It is also discussed whether aluminum could be associated with dementia.

 

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