Reduced Iron
FDA mandates iron fortification of enriched flour at 20 mg iron per pound (21 CFR 137.165). At typical food levels, reduced iron is safe; toxicity becomes a concern only at supplement-level intakes >20 mg/kg or chronic intake exceeding the 45 mg/day adult Tolerable Upper Intake Level.
What it is
Elemental iron powder (Fe) produced by reducing iron oxide with hydrogen or carbon monoxide; used as a food fortificant.
Iron fortification of cereal-grain products to address iron-deficiency anemia at the population level.
Why it's flagged
- Excess intake from supplements (not food) can cause GI distress
- Hemochromatosis patients should monitor intake
- Lower bioavailability than ferrous sulfate
What regulators actually say
"Enriched flour conforms to the definition and standard of identity...20 milligrams of iron...per pound."
"In the United States, Canada, and many other countries, wheat and other flours are fortified with iron."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
Permitted as a fortificant under 21 CFR 137.165
European Union — EFSA
Permitted; covered by Regulation (EC) No 1925/2006
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