Is Zinc Oxide Safe for Food & Drugs Use?
Zinc oxide is an inorganic compound and found to be versatile as it has been used in a wide range of product manufacturing. You can find zinc oxide in most medical ointments and sun protection lotions. Recently, this compound is used as a food additive. When it comes to food & beverage, this essential topic is always emerging: Is zinc oxide safe?
Choosing manufacturing materials needs to be done carefully. Especially when it comes to F&B industries or medical products, such as skin care and medicines.
Zinc oxide has been proven safe to be used and FDA (The US Food and Drug Administration) has approved its safety. The use of zinc oxide can be adjusted to certain doses and needs for various industries.
The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has conducted extensive reviews of the safety of zinc oxide for use as:
- A color additive (drugs and cosmetics)
- Active ingredient in skin protectants (sunscreens)
Thus, it is concluded that zinc oxide may be safely used in cosmetics. FDA also has approved the use of zinc oxide for:
- Over-the-counter skin protectants at concentrations up to 25%
- Sunscreen drug products at concentrations up to 25%
Aside from drugs and cosmetics, zinc oxide has also been used in food fortification. It is a process of adding nutrients to increase its nutritional value. Zinc oxide can be found in these food products:
- Breakfast cereals
- Nutrition drinks
- Nutrition bars
- Food supplements
The amount added to food may vary, it is recommended to read the food label and ingredients list to identify foods fortified with the mineral. Zinc oxide in food products helps to ensure that people receive an adequate amount of zinc in their diets.
Zinc oxide has been used in many fields and industries since the 18th century. Scientists have developed the use of zinc oxide for advanced applications, including the use of nanoparticles and other micro applications.
Inorganic compounds such as zinc oxide can be safely used under regulations. FDA has determined the suggested concentration, thus, it is supposed to be used safely by manufacturing companies in their production process. The right doses and the correct formations of zinc oxide will safely help make our lives better.
