(a) Identity. (1) The color additive copper powder is a very fine free-flowing metallic powder prepared from virgin electrolytic copper. It contains small amounts of stearic or oleic acid as lubricants.

(2) Color additive mixtures for drug use made with copper powder may contain only those diluents listed in this subpart as safe and suitable for use in color additive mixtures for coloring externally applied drugs.

(b) Specifications. Copper powder shall conform to the following specifications and shall be free from impurities other than those named to the extent that such impurities may be avoided by good manufacturing practice:

(c) Uses and restrictions. Copper powder may be safely used in coloring externally applied drugs, including those intended for use in the area of the eye, in amounts consistent with good manufacturing practice.

(d) Labeling. The color additive and any mixture prepared therefrom intended solely or in part for coloring purposes shall conform to the requirements of § 70.25 of this chapter.

(e) Exemption from certification. Certification of the color additive is not necessary for the protection of the public health, and therefore batches thereof are exempt from the certification requirements of section 721(c) of the act.