Ergocalciferol

Ergocalciferol is a form of vitamin D, also known as vitamin D2. It is naturally found in some fungi, such as mushrooms exposed to ultraviolet light, and can also be produced commercially by irradiating ergosterol, a compound derived from yeast or fungi.

Ergocalciferol is primarily added to foods as a source of vitamin D, a nutrient important for bone health and immune function. It is often used to fortify plant-based milk alternatives, such as soy or almond drinks, to help consumers meet their vitamin D requirements, especially those following vegan or vegetarian diets.

Ergocalciferol is authorised as a food additive in Great Britain and is used as a nutrient. The Food Standards Agency (FSA) and Food Standards Scotland (FSS) oversee its use. Like other forms of vitamin D, it is essential for calcium absorption and bone mineralisation. Excessive intake of vitamin D from all sources can lead to hypercalcaemia, although this is rare from food fortification alone. Evidence regarding optimal intake levels is continually reviewed by bodies such as SACN (Scientific Advisory Committee on Nutrition).