A groundbreaking approach to combat iron deficiency has emerged from MIT, where researchers have developed a method to fortify foods and drinks with iron using metal-organic frameworks (MOFs). This innovative solution aims to address the needs of the 2 billion people worldwide suffering from iron deficiency, which can lead to serious health issues such as anemia and impaired child development. The MOFs can be easily added to various staple foods and beverages, making them adaptable for different cultures and dietary habits.
• The MOFs consist of iron and food-grade ligands, allowing for high nutrient loading while preventing reactions that can hinder iron absorption.
• They can also carry iodine, addressing dual deficiencies in a single product.
• Stability tests show that these particles can withstand extreme conditions and still release nutrients effectively in the body.
• The research team plans to launch a company to produce iron and iodine-fortified beverages and explore double-fortified salt options.
This development is crucial as it offers a scalable and effective way to improve nutrition globally, particularly in developing countries. By enhancing food security and health outcomes, this innovation could significantly reduce the prevalence of nutrient deficiencies and their associated health impacts.
Enjoying the read? Subscribe for free to one of the fastest-growing newsletters and get weekly coffee news (TL;DR updates) delivered right to your inbox.