What is some background information on iron in cereal?

Iron deficiency anemia is a widespread public health problem, especially among women of reproductive age and young children. In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommends that all enriched cereal grains be fortified with iron at a level of 45 milligrams per kilogram (mg/kg). This level of fortification was established in 1941 based on the results of studies that showed that this amount of iron was effective in preventing iron deficiency anemia without causing any adverse effects.

Sources of Iron in Cereal

The iron in cereal can come from a variety of sources, including:

* Elemental iron: This is the most common form of iron used in cereal fortification. It is a fine powder that is added to the cereal during processing.

* Ferrous sulfate: This is a compound that contains iron in the ferrous form. It is also commonly used to fortify cereal.

* Iron-fortified yeast: This is yeast that has been grown in a medium that contains iron. It is a natural source of iron that can be added to cereal.

Absorption of Iron from Cereal

The absorption of iron from cereal is affected by a number of factors, including:

* The type of iron: Elemental iron is more easily absorbed than ferrous sulfate.

* The presence of other nutrients: Vitamin C and meat help to improve the absorption of iron.

* The presence of inhibitors: Some foods, such as coffee, tea, and dairy products, can inhibit the absorption of iron.

Benefits of Iron Fortification in Cereal

Iron fortification of cereal has been shown to have a number of benefits, including:

* Reduced risk of iron deficiency anemia: Iron fortification of cereal has been shown to reduce the risk of iron deficiency anemia in women of reproductive age and young children.

* Improved cognitive development: Iron deficiency can lead to impaired cognitive development in children. Iron fortification of cereal has been shown to improve cognitive development in children who are at risk for iron deficiency.

* Improved physical performance: Iron deficiency can lead to fatigue and decreased physical performance. Iron fortification of cereal has been shown to improve physical performance in athletes and other individuals who are physically active.

Risks of Iron Fortification in Cereal

There are some potential risks associated with iron fortification of cereal, including:

* Iron overload: Consuming too much iron can lead to iron overload, which can cause a number of health problems, including liver damage, heart problems, and diabetes.

* Gastrointestinal side effects: Iron can cause gastrointestinal side effects, such as nausea, vomiting, and constipation.

Overall, iron fortification of cereal is a safe and effective way to reduce the risk of iron deficiency anemia. However, it is important to consume iron-fortified cereal in moderation to avoid the risks of iron overload.