Molybdenum
Mo · last AI check: 2026-07-19
In short
A rarely discussed trace element needed for the metabolism of certain amino acids. Deficiencies practically never occur on an ordinary diet.
What it does in the body
The sentences below are officially authorised EU health claims.
Molybdenum contributes to normal sulphur amino acid metabolism EU health claim
Commission Regulation (EU) No 432/2012 of 16 May 2012, Annex — list of permitted health claims · register entry: 313 · EFSA opinion: 2010;8(10):1745
Condition of use on a product: The product is at least a source of Molybdenum.
How much you need
| Country / organisation | Group | Value | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| EFSA | adults | AI Adequate intake — an approximate value used when data are insufficient to set an exact requirement (RDA). | |
| NASEM (US/CA) | adults | RDA Recommended daily allowance — covers the needs of almost all healthy people in a group. | |
| Switzerland | adult men | RDA Recommended daily allowance — covers the needs of almost all healthy people in a group. |
Reference values from different countries are not directly comparable — they differ in definition and age group. How to read reference values →
Every value states its source — click it to see the document, location and link.Data and content are prepared and cross-checked against source documents by several independent AI models. They have not been audited by a human editor.Before citing a value, check it in the source document — verification is automated (AI), not editorial.
Worth knowing
Molybdenum is a cofactor for several enzymes involved in the breakdown of sulphur-containing amino acids and in purine metabolism. It is one of the least “talked-about” trace elements in public nutrition discussion — mainly because it is abundant in an ordinary, varied diet, and documented cases of deficiency in healthy people are exceptionally rare.
Legumes are a particularly rich source of molybdenum — plants in this family use it to power enzymes involved in nitrogen fixation.
Where to find it
legumes · wholegrain products · nuts · offal
This material is for information and education. It does not replace advice from a doctor or dietitian. For health matters, consult a qualified medical professional.