Super maize? study checks if biofortified corn boosts nutrient absorption in guatemalan children

NCT ID NCT06650397

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study looked at whether biofortified maize—corn grown to have higher zinc and iron—helps school-aged children in Guatemala absorb more of these nutrients compared to traditional maize. Fifty-six children aged 10-14 ate tortillas made from either biofortified or regular maize for 27 days. Researchers used stable isotopes to measure how much zinc and iron their bodies actually absorbed.

What this could mean

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

Active substance

biofortified maize

What this could lead to

If successful, this could show that biofortified maize is a better source of zinc and iron than traditional maize, potentially helping reduce nutrient deficiencies in regions where maize is a staple food.

What could go wrong

This is a small, completed study with only 56 children in a specific region, so results may not apply broadly. It measures absorption, not long-term health outcomes, so real-world benefits are uncertain.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Callosities

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Institute of Nutrition of Central America and Panama

    Guatemala City, Departamento de Guatemala, 1188, Guatemala