Vitamin D3 is commonly used in various food and beverage products to enhance nutritional value. It is often added to dairy milk and plant-based milk alternatives, such as soy, almond, and coconut milk, as well as to other products like fruit juices, meal replacement bars, soy protein-based beverages, wheat flour, corn meal products, infant formulas, and breakfast cereals. In the United States, the FDA has approved the voluntary addition of vitamin D3 to these products, allowing manufacturers to add up to 84 IU/100g of vitamin D3 to milk and similar amounts to plant-based milk alternatives and yogurt alternatives. This fortification helps combat vitamin D deficiency and supports bone health[3][4].
Vitamin D3, also known as cholecalciferol, is created through a process that involves exposure to ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation. In the human body, this process occurs in the skin, specifically in the keratinocytes of the epidermis. Here, 7-dehydrocholesterol, a precursor molecule, reacts with UVB light wavelengths between 290 to 320 nm to form previtamin D3. This initial reaction is a photochemical conversion that occurs when the skin is exposed to sunlight or other UVB light sources. Following this conversion, the previtamin D3 undergoes a spontaneous thermal isomerization to form vitamin D3[1][2][3].
In industrial production, a similar process is employed. 7-dehydrocholesterol, often sourced from lanolin (a waxy secretion from sheep's wool), is exposed to UVB and UVC light to convert it into previtamin D3, which then isomerizes to vitamin D3. After this conversion, the resulting mixture is purified to isolate the vitamin D3. This industrial process mimics the natural synthesis that occurs in the skin, ensuring a high yield of pure vitamin D3 for use in dietary supplements and fortified foods[4][2].
The safety profile of Vitamin D3 for human consumption is generally favorable when taken within recommended limits. Vitamin D3 is likely safe when consumed in daily amounts below 4000 IU (100 mcg) for most individuals, including pregnant and breastfeeding women, as well as children, provided they adhere to age-specific guidelines[1][2][3]. However, exceeding these limits can lead to serious health issues, including hypercalcemia (high blood calcium levels), which can cause symptoms such as weakness, dry mouth, nausea, vomiting, and in severe cases, life-threatening conditions like heart failure, kidney stones, pancreatitis, and even coma[4][2]. It is crucial to follow the Tolerable Upper Intake Level (UL) and consult healthcare providers before taking high doses, especially for treating deficiencies.
While Vitamin D3 itself is not typically associated with contamination risks from heavy metals, pesticides, or pathogens, there are other considerations. For instance, if Vitamin D3 supplements are manufactured improperly, there can be risks of contamination. For example, errors in manufacturing or labeling can result in products containing significantly higher amounts of Vitamin D3 than stated, which can lead to toxicity[2]. Additionally, there have been instances where dietary supplements, including vitamin D products, have been contaminated with bacteria, such as the FDA warning about potential contamination with Burkholderia cepacia in certain liquid dietary supplements[3]. However, these risks are more related to the manufacturing process rather than the source of the vitamin itself. In terms of food and beverages fortified with Vitamin D3, the risk of heavy metal or pesticide contamination is more relevant to the food items themselves rather than the added vitamin. Therefore, ensuring that both the supplements and fortified foods come from reputable sources is essential to minimize these risks.
Hundreds of ingredients are entering the US food supply every year. Not to mention, the hundreds of tainted products with unlabled toxic contaminiants. Join so you can shop with ease of mind.