Ingredient
Iron
What is Iron?
Iron is a mineral that is essential for the production of hemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout the body. It is commonly found in foods like red meat, beans, and fortified cereals, and can be added to products in its elemental form or as part of compounds such as ferrous sulfate.
Iron is used in various products primarily for its nutritional benefits. It helps in preventing and treating iron deficiency anemia, which is a common health condition. The health evidence around iron is generally positive, with its benefits widely recognized, although too much iron can lead to an overload condition known as hemochromatosis.
When you see iron on a label, it is typically included to boost nutritional value, especially in fortified foods designed to enhance overall dietary intake.
Commonly found in: fortified cereals, dietary supplements, infant formulas, red meat alternatives, breads, health drinks
What to watch
- Excessive iron intake can lead to iron overload or hemochromatosis, which may cause organ damage over time.
Benefits
- Essential for the production of hemoglobin, improving oxygen transport in the body.
- Helps in preventing iron deficiency anemia, especially in populations at risk like pregnant women and young children.
Iron is recognized as an essential nutrient and its use in fortified foods is generally regarded as safe (GRAS).
Research supports iron's role in preventing anemia, although excessive levels can lead to health issues.
Iron as a mineral is vegan-friendly, though absorption can be enhanced by consuming vitamin C-rich foods.
Scout's take
Iron is an essential mineral added to enriched foods to prevent anemia. It plays a crucial role in oxygen transport and energy production. The enrichment process helps maintain adequate iron levels in diets lacking in natural sources.
The case against
Excessive iron intake can lead to toxicity, but this is unlikely from enriched rice alone.
from the analysis of Mahatma EXTRA LONG GRAIN ENRICHED RICEExcessive iron intake can lead to toxicity, but this is rare from food sources.
from the analysis of Essential Baking San Francisco Style Sourdough, Artisan BreadThe case for
Prevents iron deficiency anemia and supports overall energy levels.
from the analysis of Mahatma EXTRA LONG GRAIN ENRICHED RICESupports oxygen transport and prevents iron-deficiency anemia.
from the analysis of Essential Baking San Francisco Style Sourdough, Artisan BreadMore from Scout's analyses
Iron is an essential mineral added to enriched flours to prevent anemia. It is crucial for oxygen transport in the blood. The form used in enrichment is typically well-absorbed.
from the analysis of Essential Baking San Francisco Style Sourdough, Artisan BreadIron was reduced to undetectable levels, achieving over 99.99% reduction. High iron levels can affect water taste and color.
from the analysis of Sentry Wellness System Under Sink FilterIron is reduced from a maximum of 3.0 ppm to 0.01 ppm, which is crucial as high iron levels can stain laundry and plumbing.
from the analysis of iSpring WGB32BM Whole House Water Filter SystemFound in 7 products
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