Plant-Derived heme iron: a new way to fight iron deficiency?

NCT ID NCT07143890

Completed Knowledge-focused Sponsor: ETH Zurich Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study looked at how well iron-deficient women absorb iron from two plant-based sources—iron chlorophyllin and soy hemoglobin—compared to standard ferrous sulfate and animal-based heme iron. Forty-five women with low iron stores but not anemic took each type of iron in water or maize porridge. Researchers measured iron absorption in blood after 14 days to see if plant heme could be a good alternative for fortifying foods.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: iron chlorophyllin, soy hemoglobin, ferrous sulfate, porcine hemoglobin
What this could lead to: If plant-derived heme iron is absorbed well, it could lead to better iron fortification in foods, helping prevent iron deficiency without relying on animal sources.
What could go wrong: This is a small, completed experimental study in 45 women, not a treatment trial. Results may not apply to men, children, or people with anemia, and plant heme may not work as well in real-world diets.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Iron Deficiencies iron deficiency anemia

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

IRON ABSORPTION IRON DEFICIENCY (ID)

Contacts and locations

Locations

ETH Zurich, Laboratoy of Clinical Biopharmacy

Zurich, 8092, Switzerland

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