Molybdenum (Mo)

Molybdenum is an essential trace element, just like iron.

The richest sources are beans, lentils, grains and organ meats, particularly liver and kidney. Poorer sources include other animal products, fruits and many vegetables. However, the specific molybdenum content of plant foods depends on the content of the soil.

Molybdenum deficiency is rare. The absorption of molybdenum after oral intake is in the range of 28-77% and urinary excretion is 17-80% of the total dose.

 A low order of toxicity of molybdenum compounds has been observed in humans. Generally, molybdenum toxicity is associated with copper intake or depleted copper stores in the body. Humans who have an inadequate intake of dietary copper or some dysfunction in their copper metabolism that makes them copper-deficient could be at greater risk of molybdenum toxicity.

For more information: Molybdenum - Health Professional Fact Sheet