A Source Of Iron

Iron is an essential mineral that the body needs to function. It is a key component of hemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout the body. Iron can be sourced from animal products (like meat and fish) or plant products (like beans and leafy greens).

Iron is commonly added to foods, especially breakfast cereals and infant formulas, to help people meet their daily iron needs. It is considered a nutrient fortification. It can also be used as a colorant in some applications.

The FDA considers iron to be a nutrient and allows it to be added to foods. Adequate iron intake is important for preventing iron deficiency anemia. However, too much iron can be harmful, especially for certain individuals. Regulatory bodies like JECFA and EFSA have evaluated iron and its compounds. Evidence on the health effects of iron fortification is extensive, with ongoing research into optimal intake levels for different populations.