A deficiency of zinc in children causes manifestation of retardation
in growth, related to decreased synthesis of growth hormone.
Among other endocrine disturbances attributed to the lack of zinc,
shows insufficient development of gonad. Zinc plays a role in certain
sterility and male impotence. It is also observed, in the regulation
of thyroid abnormalities in individuals who have a rate of
abnormally low plasma zinc. Another consequence from lack of
zinc is ageusia (decrease in taste and even the perception of abnormal
taste) and reduction in the odor. It is a symptom that often appears
when receiving kidney dialysis and disappears after the
administration of zinc. According to Decree No. 55.871/65 (ANVISA,
2007), the maximum of Zn is 50 mg/L. Therefore, no sample
studied exceeded the maximum level of Zn prescribed by the Brazilian
legislation. Most milk had levels above the minimum set of
3.0 mg/L (Folley & Otterby, 1978). This parameter is important because
zinc has many functions in the body. Furthermore, the values
found for the trace element, had relatively low amplitude in the
various investigated milk.