Manganese

Manganese is a naturally occurring mineral found in the earth's crust, soil, and water. It is also present in many foods, particularly whole grains, nuts, leafy green vegetables, and tea. In food production, it can be added as a nutrient or used in certain processing aids.

Manganese is primarily added to foods as a nutrient to fortify products and contribute to the recommended daily intake. It is commonly found in meal replacements, protein shakes, and milkshakes, where it helps to boost the nutritional profile. It is not typically added for its functional properties as a processing aid like emulsifying or preserving.

Manganese is an essential mineral for human health, playing a role in bone formation, metabolism, and antioxidant defence. The UK's Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (Defra) has evaluated manganese and it is permitted as a nutrient in certain foods. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has also evaluated manganese, confirming its essentiality. While manganese is vital, excessive intake can lead to neurological issues, though this is rare from food sources alone. Evidence does not suggest a direct link between typical dietary intake of manganese and disease.