What Are Trace Minerals?

This guide explains what the term means, common examples, and how it appears on supplement and mineral-product labels.

What the term means

Trace minerals are minerals the body needs in relatively small amounts. Examples include zinc, copper, selenium, iodine, manganese, chromium, and molybdenum.

Marketing language can be broader

A phrase such as trace mineral blend does not tell you which minerals are present or how much of each is provided.

Compare specifics

Look for named minerals, measured amounts, serving size, and source forms. More minerals on a list does not automatically mean a better product.

What to check before you choose a product

Read the serving size, ingredient list, amount per serving when provided, directions, warnings, and storage information. Keep ingredient research separate from claims about a finished multi-ingredient product.