What is E 175?
E 175 is the E number of Gold. Metallic gold used as a colour for coatings and decorations, for example on chocolates, cakes and liqueurs.
Where is E 175 most commonly used?
Gold leaf is used for decoration, for example on chocolates, cakes and desserts. Liqueurs such as Danziger Goldwasser contain small gold flakes.
What is E 175 used for?
E 175 belongs to the group "Colours" and is used as colour.
- Colour: Colours add or restore colour in a food.
Which foods may contain E 175?
According to the European Commission's database, E 175 may be used in 3 food categories and subcategories, each only in specific products and usually with maximum levels. The categories come from these areas:
- Confectionery
- Beverages
Is E 175 vegan?
Usually yes: the substance is normally made from plant, mineral or synthetic raw materials or with microorganisms. In individual cases, only the manufacturer or a vegan label can give certainty.
Is E 175 linked to genetic engineering?
No typical link to genetic engineering is known for this substance: it is not usually obtained from plants for which GM varieties exist, nor produced by fermentation.
How does E 175 appear on the label?
In the list of ingredients, the substance appears with its function, followed by the E number or the name, for example "Colour: E 175" or "Colour: Gold".
Sources
- Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008, consolidated version of 18.08.2026, Annexes I and II, EUR-Lex
- Food Additives Database, European Commission (accessed 19 October 2026)