Zinc is an essential mineral and has a multitude of biological roles because it is a functional component of over 300 enzymes that rely on zinc to be able to catalyze chemical reactions. Zinc also participates in the structure of important proteins and is involved in the regulation of gene expression.[1][2]
Zinc is obtained from the diet. Oysters contain substantially more zinc than any other food, although red meat (e.g., beef, pork) and poultry provide the majority of zinc in the American diet. Other good sources of zinc are legumes, nuts, and dairy products.[3] In some countries, the flours used in cereals are fortified with zinc.[4]