Tag: Ferrous vs ferric

Archaeological evidence suggests that people have been using iron for at least 5000 years. The relationship between the terms ferrum and iron is rooted in language, with 'ferrum' being the Latin word for the element we call 'iron' in English.

Iron deficiency affects approximately one-third of the world's population, making supplementation crucial for many. Knowing what is the bioavailability of iron formulations is key, as not all types are absorbed equally, influencing their effectiveness and potential for side effects.

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) classifies ferric phosphate as 'Generally Recognized As Safe' (GRAS) for use as an iron nutritional supplement and fortifier in certain foods, yet confusion can arise from its dual use in pesticides. So, is ferric phosphate healthy, and how does its nutritional value truly measure up?