Enriched With Iron

Iron is a mineral that is essential for life. It is naturally found in many foods and is also added to some foods during fortification. In the US, iron is commonly added to refined grain products like flour and pasta to help replenish iron lost during processing.

Manufacturers add iron to foods to increase their nutritional value, specifically to help prevent iron deficiency. It is most often found in enriched grain products such as bread, pasta, rice, and cereals.

Iron is an essential nutrient. The FDA considers added iron in enriched grains to be safe and effective for improving nutritional quality. The World Health Organization (WHO) has evaluated iron and its role in nutrition. While iron is vital, excessive iron intake can be harmful. The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine have established upper intake levels for iron for different age groups.