Zinc Citrate
Zinc citrate is a recognized zinc source that is GRAS in the U.S. and authorized in the EU.
What it is
Zinc(II) salt of citric acid (Zn3(C6H5O7)2) — a soluble, bioavailable zinc compound used as a fortificant and supplement.
Zinc fortificant in foods, infant formula, supplements, and toothpastes (the latter is non-food).
Why it's flagged
- GI side effects at supplement doses
- copper deficiency at chronic high intake
What regulators actually say
"The Food and Nutrition Board has set a Tolerable Upper Intake Level (UL) of 40 mg/day for zinc for adults...High-dose zinc supplementation can interfere with copper absorption."
"Directive 2002/46/EC on the approximation of the laws of the Member States relating to food supplements — Annex II lists zinc citrate as an authorized source of zinc."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
GRAS as a nutrient supplement (zinc salts are listed; zinc citrate accepted as a zinc source).
European Union — EFSA
Authorized zinc source for food supplements (Annex II of Directive 2002/46/EC) and foods for specific groups (Reg. (EU) 609/2013).
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