Manganese: Metal element is a potential poison all around us

Manganese oxide is an important component of dry-cell batteries, and is also used as a pigment in ceramics and glassmaking, and a catalyst in organic synthesis. — Wikimedia

Manganese (Mn) is the 12th most abundant element on the earth. Many are unaware that this metal is used in the production of fungicides, batteries, fuel additives, paint, a variety of important alloys, steel, drink cans and glass. It is among the country’s mineral reserves.

Manganese is essential to human health as it is a co-factor in human enzyme functions and is required for normal human development, the regulation of blood sugar and vitamins, and the maintenance of nerve and immune cell functions.