Iron: Food Fact Sheet

Iron is a mineral that has many different roles in the body. It is particularly important for making haemoglobin: a protein contained in red blood cells that transports oxygen around the body. Iron also plays an essential role in maintaining a healthy immune system (your body’s natural defence system). 

This Food Fact Sheet lists the recommended amounts of iron for different groups of people and the foods and drinks that are rich in iron. It also gives you some ideas on how you might achieve your recommended intake.

What are the symptoms of iron deficiency?

People with mild iron deficiency often feel tired, lacking in energy and tend to be more susceptible to infections. With more severe iron deficiency (called iron deficiency anaemia) symptoms such as heart palpitations, brittle nails, thinning hair, itchy skin (pruritus) and mouth sores or ulcers can develop.

Which foods are good sources of iron?

Many different foods contain iron in different amounts. Some food sources are more iron rich than others. For example, animal-based sources such as red meat (beef, lamb and pork) are particularly rich sources of iron and are most easily absorbed, and to a lesser extent fish and poultry. (see Table 2)

Plant-based sources of iron include pulses and legumes (such as beans, peas, and lentils), dark green leafy vegetables (such as spinach, cabbage, and broccoli), tofu, nuts and seeds.

The iron in animal-based sources is often referred to as ‘haem iron’ whilst the iron in plant-based sources is often referred to as ‘non-haem iron’. ‘Haem iron’ can increase the absorption of ‘nonhaem iron’. Therefore, to improve iron status it can be beneficial to eat, for example, red meat (beef, lamb or pork) alongside green leafy vegetables. Many breakfast cereals are also fortified with iron.

Table 1: How much iron do I need?

Iron and vegetarianism

Although not as easily absorbed as animal-based sources, plant-based foods such as beans, grains and vegetables also contain iron. Some plantbased foods contain more iron than others and food preparation can enhance iron absorption. For example, cooking, soaking nuts and seeds and using sprouted seeds and grains. Try and opt for the more iron-rich plant-based foods.

(see Table 2 for suggestions).

What about vitamin C?

Although vitamin C has been shown to increase the absorption of iron, it is currently unclear as to whether this improves iron status. Nevertheless, fruits and vegetables rich in vitamin C should be eaten in regularly in the diet.

Tips to ensure an iron-rich diet

• Add green leafy vegetables to main meals.
• Add dried fruit to desserts and have fruit and (or) nuts as snacks between meals.
• Try iron fortified products. 

Menu ideas*

*These menu ideas are just a guide. For tailored dietary advice, seek assistance from a dietitian.

Table 2: Iron in different foods

Summary

Iron is an important mineral we need to have in our daily diet. Opt for a variety of iron-rich foods to ensure an adequate intake of iron.