Nicotinic Acid
Also known as: E375, Niacin, Nicotinamide, niacin, vitamin B3
Niacin is an essential B vitamin. NIH ODS notes no adverse effects from naturally occurring niacin in foods.
What it is
Nicotinic acid (niacin or vitamin B3, pyridine-3-carboxylic acid). E375 is the EU additive code for its use as a vitamin/nutrient added to food.
Vitamin fortification — added to enriched flour, breakfast cereals, infant formulas, energy bars, and beverages to meet niacin DRV / fortification targets.
Why it's flagged
- Flushing reaction at supplemental doses ≥30–50 mg
- Hepatotoxicity with extended-release supplements at ≥1 g/day
What regulators actually say
"No adverse effects have been reported from the consumption of naturally occurring niacin in foods."
"Niacin is a generic term for nicotinic acid and nicotinamide ... niacin can be synthesized in the human body from the indispensable amino acid tryptophan."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
GRAS / mandatory addition to enriched flour (21 CFR 137.165)
European Union — EFSA
Authorized as nutrient (E375); EFSA established Dietary Reference Values 2014
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