The proposed project intends to compare the effect of nano ferrous pyrophosphate bioavailability with that of FeSO4 (ferrous sulphate) in iron deficiency anaemia and in iron replete rats. The project also aims to develop a suitable biomarker for iron overload and iron toxicity along with oxidative stress assessments in iron replete rats.
In the present study, addition of ferrous pyrophosphate in the form of nanoparticle to food material may have an advantage of less taste-related effects due to its insolubility in water and higher bioavailability which may prove to be a potential food fortificant. Findings from this study could eventually allow development of markers that are predictive of toxicity in humans. This could set the stage for one to consider exposure of healthy populations to nano iron fortified food substances.