Ingredient · Updated
Niacin
Found in 11 productsSee all
Supreme Long Grain Rice 
Member's Mark Long Grain Water Polished Enriched Rice 
De Cecco Whole Wheat Spaghetti No. 12 
Mahatma EXTRA LONG GRAIN ENRICHED RICE 
Rummo Italian Pasta Fusilli No.48 Dairy Free Contains Wheat Shelf Stable 
Rummo Shells Pasta No 42 
Celsius Energy Drink 
Essential Baking San Francisco Style Sourdough, Artisan Bread What is Niacin?
Niacin, also known as Vitamin B3, is a water-soluble vitamin that is essential for human health. It can be found in foods like meat, fish, eggs, and greens, or produced synthetically. It plays a key role in energy metabolism and the maintenance of healthy skin and nerves.
Niacin is added to foods to prevent or treat niacin deficiency, which can lead to conditions like pellagra. It is also used therapeutically in higher doses to help manage cholesterol levels, although such use should always be guided by a healthcare professional. While niacin is generally considered safe, very high doses can cause side effects such as flushing or liver damage.
When you see niacin on a label, it's typically used to fortify the product, adding nutritional value. It may also be present naturally in foods like cereals, grains, and meat products.
Commonly found in: fortified cereals, supplements, protein bars, multivitamins, bakery products
What to watch
- High doses may cause skin flushing and itching.
- Excessive intake can lead to liver damage.
Benefits
- Essential for converting food into energy.
- Helps maintain healthy skin and nerves.
Niacin is recognized as Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) when used as directed.
Research supports niacin's role in nutrition but notes mixed results in its effectiveness for cholesterol management in large doses.
Niacin is typically synthetic or plant-based, making it suitable for vegan diets.
Sources: Vitamin B3 (Niacin): Fact Sheet for Health Professionals
Scout's take
Beneficial ingredient — whole-food or functional value in this product class.
The case against
Excessive intake can lead to flushing and liver damage, but such risks are minimal at typical dietary levels.
from the analysis of Rummo Shells Pasta No 42The case for
Supports energy metabolism and is essential for maintaining healthy skin and nerves.
from the analysis of Rummo Shells Pasta No 42 · echoed in 2 other analysesSupports energy production and skin health, contributing to overall well-being.
from the analysis of Rummo Italian Pasta Fusilli No.48 Dairy Free Contains Wheat Shelf StableSupports energy metabolism and overall health by preventing niacin deficiency.
from the analysis of Mahatma EXTRA LONG GRAIN ENRICHED RICEMore from Scout's analyses
Part of Vitamins. These vitamins are added to enhance the nutritional profile of the pasta. They are essential for various bodily functions, including energy metabolism and red blood cell formation. The fortification process ensures that the pasta contributes to daily vitamin intake.
from the analysis of De Cecco Whole Wheat Spaghetti No. 12Niacin, also known as vitamin B3, is important for converting food into energy. It plays a role in DNA repair and the production of stress and sex hormones. Fortification with niacin helps prevent deficiencies, particularly in populations with limited dietary variety.
from the analysis of Supreme Long Grain RiceNiacin, also known as vitamin B3, is essential for energy metabolism and DNA repair. It is added to enriched flour to prevent deficiencies. It supports overall health by aiding in the conversion of food into energy.
from the analysis of Kraft Dinner Original Mac & CheeseAll 11 products with Niacin
Where Niacin shows up
- Rice & Pasta 7 products
- Energy Drinks 1 product
- Bread 1 product
- Baking 1 product
- Bagels & Muffins 1 product
Scan any product to see every ingredient explained — and healthier swaps.