Guides › Zinc
Zinc in Australia: evidence and prices
TL;DR
Zinc is an essential mineral. The Australian/NZ adult upper limit is 40 mg/day, and long-term high intake can cause copper deficiency. healthdirect notes zinc supplements are used when a doctor finds low levels, with a follow-up blood test. Multivitamins and ZMA products often add zinc, so total your labels.
Upper limit and copper
The Australian/NZ Nutrient Reference Values (NHMRC) set an adult upper limit of 40 mg/day. NIH ODS (Copper) notes high zinc intakes can interfere with copper absorption and excessive use can lead to copper deficiency. [1] [2] [3]
Australian consumer guidance
healthdirect says vegetarians and vegans are more likely to have low zinc, and that if your doctor finds low levels you may need a supplement, followed by a blood test. [4]
Prices in Australia
Price check pending. We couldn't verify current Australian retailer prices yet, so none are shown.
FAQ
Can I take zinc every day?
Ask your GP or pharmacist. Long-term high intake can cause copper deficiency.
Does zinc help colds?
We don't make that claim here. See NIH ODS for the evidence and ask your pharmacist.
Sources
- NHMRC Nutrient Reference Values for Australia and New Zealand: Zinc (Eat For Health)
- NIH ODS: Zinc fact sheet
- NIH ODS: Copper fact sheet
- healthdirect: Zinc
Sources checked 15 Oct 2026. Pending human review before publication.