B5

Pantothenic acid, also known as Vitamin B5, is an essential nutrient that humans need to produce energy and synthesize hormones and cholesterol. It is found naturally in many foods, including whole grains, meat, poultry, eggs, and vegetables. In food production, it is often added as a synthetic nutrient.

Vitamin B5 is added to foods as a nutrient supplement to fortify products and help consumers meet their daily intake needs. It is commonly found in fortified foods such as energy and granola bars, fruit and vegetable juices, nectars, fruit drinks, and powdered drink mixes.

Pantothenic acid is recognized as safe and effective for use as a nutrient supplement by the FDA. It is considered an essential nutrient, and deficiency is rare in developed countries. International bodies like JECFA and EFSA have evaluated pantothenic acid. Typical intakes from fortified foods are well within safe levels.