Iron lactate

Ferrous lactate, or iron(II) lactate, is a chemical compound consisting of one atom of iron (Fe2+) and two lactate anions. It has the chemical formula Fe(C3H5O3). Ferrous lactate is a greenish-white powder or crystalline mass having a characteristic odor. It is used as a food additive with E number E585. It is an acidity regulator and colour retention agent, and is also used to fortify foods with iron. It is of neutral color and flavor, and is soluble. It is used in acid foods below a pH of 4.5, where there is less susceptibility to oxidation and conversion to the ferric form, which results in discoloration. In higher pH foods, the instability can be prevented by complexing with ligands which prevent browning discoloration. It is used in fortification of drinks and juices.