E175 – ;ld
ColouringDescription
Colloidal gold; a suspension of gold nanoparticles in a liquid, typically water
Notes
Gold (E175) is made from genuine gold metal that has been processed into incredibly tiny particles called nanoparticles, which are then suspended in a liquid to create what's known as a colloidal solution. This involves taking pure gold - the same precious metal used in jewellery - and breaking it down into particles so small that they remain suspended in liquid rather than settling out. The process typically involves chemical or physical methods to create gold particles that are just a few nanometers in size, far smaller than what the human eye can see individually. Gold functions purely as a decorative food colourant, providing an unmistakable golden metallic appearance to foods and drinks. You'll find it used in ultra-premium products like luxury chocolates, high-end liqueurs (such as Goldschläger), exclusive desserts at fine dining establishments, and special occasion confections. Some traditional foods, particularly in Asian cuisines, have used gold decoration for centuries as a symbol of prosperity and celebration. As a pure mineral element, gold E175 is suitable for all dietary requirements including vegetarian, vegan, kosher, and halal diets. Gold is chemically inert, meaning it doesn't react with other substances in your body and passes through your digestive system unchanged, which is why it's considered safe for consumption. However, given that this is literally edible gold, it's an extremely expensive ingredient reserved for the most luxurious food items and special occasions.