Iron oxides are considered safe in cosmetics and personal care products because they are non-toxic and non-allergenic. Those with sensitive skin will tolerate iron oxides. Iron oxide reacts with water to produce iron hydroxide. The main difference between Fe2O3 and Fe3O4 is that Fe2O3 is a paramagnetic mineral with only a Fe2+ oxidation state, whereas Fe3O4 is a ferromagnetic material with both Fe2+ and Fe3+ oxidation states. Iron oxide is a molecule that absorbs energy in almost every state corresponding to purple, blue, green, and yellows – leaving the reds reflected. Rusting is an electrochemical process that transfers electrons from the metal to oxygen. This creates an electron deficiency in the metal, which must be filled by the flow of electrons from a more electronegative substance. Three things must be present for rusting to occur: iron, oxygen, and water. The short answer is no. Rust can stain your skin (as it will stain clothing, wood, or other surfaces), but nothing is inherently harmful. Even a wound from a rusty object isn't necessarily worse than a wound from a non-rusty object (see more below). To tackle items with significant corrosion, submerge your rusty tools or knives in a bowl of white vinegar and let them sit overnight or as long as 24 hours. Once they have had a good soak, remove them from the vinegar and scrub the rust off with steel wool, a scouring pad, or a wire brush. CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS Iron oxides are permitted for use in foods in the draft General Standard for Food Additives being established by the Codex Committee on Food Additives and Contaminants; the use is limited only by good manufacturing practice. If you are looking for high quality, high purity and cost-effective iron oxide, or if you require the latest price of iron oxide, please feel free to email contact mis-asia.