Mineral
Zinc (as Zinc Sulfate)
Also known as: zinc sulfate, zinc sulphate, ZnSO4
Zinc sulfate is an inorganic zinc salt with moderate bioavailability, used in supplements for immune function, wound healing, and protein synthesis. Absorption is better on an empty stomach but may cause nausea.
Last reviewed June 2026 · Evidence graded from peer-reviewed research, not editorial opinion. Educational only — not medical advice.
Every Zinc (as Zinc Sulfate) product we have scored
| # | Product | Score | Per serving |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Thorne Zinc Bisglycinate 30 mg | 96 A | $0.33 |
| 2 | Thorne Zinc Picolinate 30 mg | 96 A | $0.68 |
| 3 | Pure Encapsulations Zinc Liquid 15 mg | 93 A | $1.45 |
| 4 | Thorne Zinc Bisglycinate 15 mg | 91 A | $0.25 |
| 5 | Pure Encapsulations CogniPhos | 91 A | $1.25 |
| 6 | Pure Encapsulations UltraZin Zinc | 91 A | $0.23 |
| 7 | Pure Encapsulations Zinc 30 | 91 A | $0.23 |
| 8 | Pure Encapsulations Zinc 15 | 91 A | $0.32 |
| 9 | Pure Encapsulations Zinc (citrate) | 91 A | $0.21 |
| 10 | Solgar Zinc Picolinate | 91 A | $0.09 |
| 11 | Pure Encapsulations Zinc chewables | 91 A | $0.20 |
| 12 | Nutricost Calcium + Magnesium + Zinc Citrates with Vitamin D3 Powder | 90 A | $0.32 |
Scored on dose accuracy, form, label transparency and third-party testing. Per-serving cost is list price divided by servings per container. No brand pays to be listed or ranked.
Common questions
How much Zinc (as Zinc Sulfate) should I take?
The typical range is 8–15 mg daily (elemental zinc for adults). Long-term use >25 mg daily may impair copper absorption; avoid exceeding UL of 40 mg daily
When should I take Zinc (as Zinc Sulfate)?
best absorbed on empty stomach, but may take with food if GI upset occurs. Food reduces absorption; take 1–2 hours apart from calcium, iron, magnesium.
Which form of Zinc (as Zinc Sulfate) is best?
zinc sulfate.
Is Zinc (as Zinc Sulfate) safe?
Commonly reported: nausea, metallic taste, abdominal cramping.
Which Zinc (as Zinc Sulfate) supplement scores highest?
Thorne Zinc Bisglycinate 30 mg, at 96/100. Scored on dose accuracy, form, label transparency and third-party testing — no brand pays to be listed or ranked.
Primary uses
- immune function
- wound healing
- protein synthesis
- enzyme function
How it works
- cofactor for 100+ enzymes
- supports T-cell and B-cell function
- antioxidant activity
Dosage
- Typical range
- 8–15 mg daily (elemental zinc for adults)
- Timing
- best absorbed on empty stomach, but may take with food if GI upset occurs
- With food
- Food reduces absorption; take 1–2 hours apart from calcium, iron, magnesium
- Duration
- Long-term use >25 mg daily may impair copper absorption; avoid exceeding UL of 40 mg daily
- Special populations
- Pregnant/lactating women: 11–13 mg daily; vegetarians may need higher intake
Forms
- zinc sulfate· 70/100
Safety
Common side effects
- nausea
- metallic taste
- abdominal cramping
Contraindications
- copper deficiency (zinc excess impairs copper absorption)
Products containing Zinc (as Zinc Sulfate)
Top-scoring supplements in our catalog that list Zinc (as Zinc Sulfate) on the label. Each product is graded on Formulate's ingredient-level rubric — dose accuracy, form, transparency, and third-party testing.
Evidence notes
Zinc has good evidence for immune support and wound healing; sulfate form has moderate bioavailability compared to glycinate or picolinate.
Grade B: Some human trials support key claims; further confirmation needed.
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Medical disclaimer. This page is educational and does not replace advice from a qualified healthcare provider. Individual needs and risks vary — consult a professional before starting, stopping, or combining supplements, especially if you are pregnant or nursing, taking medication, or managing a health condition.