The refining of cereal grains, a major dietary staple in the UK, has been shown to remove up to 90% of the available zinc content of these foodstuffs. This, combined with the trend to eat less animal-derived protein, is likely to be one of the reasons why a staggering one out of three adults in the UK receive less than the Reference Nutrient Intake (RNI) for this mineral. Zinc is essential for all protein synthesis in the body. Any extra physical or mental demands made on the body can increase the need for zinc or cause our bodies to lose extra zinc, whereas phytate and fibre rich foods inhibit the absorption of zinc from food. One fifth of zinc in the body is found to be in skin and it is involved in tissue renewal. Indeed the health of several body systems such as the nervous, immune and reproductive systems are influenced by zinc, as are the senses of taste and smell. Zincatest is a simple non-invasive test, which gives an indication of zinc status. Zincatest can also be given as a zinc supplement. Recommend to those who find zinc in tablet or capsule form difficult to swallow.