Ferric Orthophosphate
Also known as: ferric phosphate, iron orthophosphate, iron phosphate
Ferric phosphate (orthophosphate) is GRAS as a nutrient supplement under 21 CFR 184.1301. Bioavailability is lower than ferrous sulfate but it does not cause off-flavors.
What it is
Iron(III) phosphate (also called ferric phosphate); off-white powder used to fortify foods with iron.
Iron fortificant; commonly used in cereals due to neutral organoleptic properties.
Why it's flagged
- lower bioavailability than ferrous iron
- iron overload in hemochromatosis
What regulators actually say
"Ferric phosphate... is generally recognized as safe... used as a nutrient supplement."
"Ferrous and ferric iron salts are the most common forms of iron found in dietary supplements."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
GRAS under 21 CFR 184.1301 (ferric phosphate) as a nutrient supplement.
European Union — EFSA
Permitted as a source of iron in food supplements/fortified foods.
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