Significant concerns; banned in some countries or classified as possible carcinogen
Colistin
At a Glance
Quick Answer
Colistin (E716) is rated "Avoid / Concerns" according to current evidence. It is banned in the EU and approved in the US. This additive is banned or not approved in at least one major market.
On This Page
What is Colistin?
Polymyxin antibiotic. Banned as growth promoter. Last-resort antibiotic for humans, resistance is major concern
Regulatory Status by Country
🇺🇸 United StatesUS
Check FDA database🇪🇺 European UnionEU
BANNEDPolymyxin antibiotic. Banned as growth promoter. Last-resort antibiotic for humans, resistance is major concern
🇬🇧 United KingdomUK
BANNEDUK retained EU food additive regulations post-Brexit with some modifications
🇯🇵 Japan
Check MHLW database🇨🇦 CanadaCA
Check Health CanadaVerify with Health Canada's permitted food additives list.
🇦🇺 Australia/NZAU/NZ
Likely restrictedMay follow EU restrictions. Check FSANZ Schedule 15.
🇮🇳 India
May be restrictedCheck FSSAI regulations. India follows Codex Alimentarius guidelines.
🇰🇷 South KoreaKR
May be restrictedCheck MFDS (Ministry of Food and Drug Safety).
🇧🇷 Brazil
Status variesCheck ANVISA (National Health Surveillance Agency).
🇨🇳 China
May be restrictedChina has independent standards. Check GB 2760.
Note: Canada, Australia/NZ, India, South Korea, Brazil, and China statuses are inferred from international regulatory patterns. Always verify with the relevant national authority.
This additive is banned or not approved in at least one country
Regulatory agencies in different countries may reach different conclusions about the same ingredient based on their assessment criteria, acceptable risk levels, and available evidence. Always check the latest regulations in your region.
Expert Analysis
Colistin is classified as a antibiotic in the food additive regulatory framework. Significant safety concerns have been identified, and this additive is restricted or banned in multiple markets. Notably, regulatory agencies disagree on this additive — it is banned in the EU but approved in the US. This regulatory divergence reflects different risk assessment philosophies between jurisdictions. Colistin remains one of the most debated food additives, generating significant public and scientific discussion. Consumers who prefer to follow the precautionary principle may wish to limit their intake. As with all food additives, moderation is key. Consult healthcare professionals for personalized dietary advice.
Is Colistin safe?
Colistin has a safety rating of "Avoid / Concerns". Significant concerns; banned in some countries or classified as possible carcinogen
Is Colistin vegan?
Colistin is generally considered vegan-friendly, though sourcing may vary.
Is Colistin banned in Europe?
Yes, Colistin is banned in the EU. Polymyxin antibiotic. Banned as growth promoter. Last-resort antibiotic for humans, resistance is major concern
What is Colistin made from?
Polymyxin antibiotic. Banned as growth promoter. Last-resort antibiotic for humans, resistance is major concern
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Colistin safe?
Is Colistin banned in any country?
What is Colistin used for?
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