Chromium
Trivalent chromium added to foods at typical fortification levels is considered safe; the NIH ODS sets an Adequate Intake (not an RDA) and notes no Tolerable Upper Intake Level due to lack of toxicity data at usual intakes. Hexavalent chromium (Cr VI) is a known carcinogen but is not the form used in food.
What it is
Trace mineral; nutritionally relevant form is trivalent chromium (Cr III), often as chromium picolinate or chromium chloride in supplements/fortified foods.
Micronutrient fortification; claimed role in carbohydrate and lipid metabolism via insulin signaling.
Why it's flagged
- confusion with toxic hexavalent form (industrial, not food)
- supplement megadoses may cause GI upset
What regulators actually say
"Because so little information is available on the adverse effects of chromium, the FNB did not establish ULs for this mineral."
"The Panel concludes that the setting of an Adequate Intake (AI) for chromium is not appropriate."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
GRAS as a nutrient; chromium picolinate has had qualified health claim petitions evaluated (FDA, 2005).
European Union — EFSA
EFSA NDA Panel (2014) concluded no Dietary Reference Value can be set; chromium not essential, but added Cr(III) supplements not a safety concern at usual levels.
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