Vitamins And Minerals: Niacinamide

Niacinamide, also known as nicotinamide, is a form of vitamin B3. It is a water-soluble vitamin that plays a key role in energy metabolism and cell function. It can be found naturally in various foods and is also produced synthetically for use in supplements and food fortification.

Manufacturers add niacinamide to foods primarily as a nutrient to enrich or fortify them. This helps prevent nutrient deficiencies and improve the nutritional profile of products. It is commonly found in fortified cereals, breads, pasta, and other grain-based products.

Niacinamide is an FDA-approved nutrient. It is an essential vitamin that helps prevent pellagra, a disease caused by niacin deficiency. Both JECFA and EFSA have evaluated niacinamide and established safe upper intake levels. At typical intake levels from fortified foods, it is generally considered safe, and there are no notable controversies regarding its safety as a food additive.