👉 Vitamin fumes refer to the harmless, often odorless, and sometimes pungent byproducts that can occur when vitamins are exposed to air, light, or heat over extended periods. These compounds, primarily formed through oxidation, can affect the potency and shelf life of vitamin supplements. For example, vitamin C (ascorbic acid) is particularly susceptible, leading to a loss of efficacy and a characteristic smell. Similarly, fat-soluble vitamins like A, D, E, and K can degrade when exposed to light or oxygen, altering their chemical structure. While these fumes are generally not harmful to health, they do indicate that the vitamin supplements may have diminished effectiveness, suggesting the importance of proper storage in dark, cool places to maintain their potency.
