Vitamins And Minerals: Vitamin B3

Vitamin B3, also known as niacin, is a water-soluble vitamin essential for human health. It is found naturally in many foods like meat, fish, eggs, and whole grains. It can also be synthesized for use as a food additive.

Manufacturers add Vitamin B3 to foods, especially cereals and baked goods, to fortify them and help consumers meet their daily intake needs. It plays a vital role in converting food into energy the body can use.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recognizes niacin as a nutrient and allows its addition to foods. The U.S. National Academies have established a tolerable upper intake level for niacin. International bodies like the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) have evaluated niacin. While generally safe at typical dietary levels, very high doses can cause side effects like skin flushing.