Ferrous sulfate

Ferrous sulfate is an iron salt, commonly appearing as a pale blue or greenish crystalline solid. It is typically produced industrially by reacting iron or iron oxides with sulfuric acid. It is a source of iron, an essential mineral for human health.

Ferrous sulfate is primarily added to foods as a source of iron fortification, particularly in breakfast cereals and infant foods, to help consumers meet their daily iron requirements. It can also be used as a colourant, contributing a black or blue-black hue to certain products.

Ferrous sulfate is authorised as a food additive in the UK and is listed on the Register of Food Additive Authorisations. It is widely used as a nutrient to fortify foods with iron. Iron is essential for oxygen transport in the blood, and deficiency can lead to anaemia. While generally safe at typical intake levels, excessive iron intake can lead to gastrointestinal upset.