EFSA establishes new safe levels for iron intake

Although a Tolerable Upper Intake level (UL) for this mineral has not been established, a safe intake level of 40 mg/day of iron has been agreed upon for adults (including pregnant and lactating women).

This level is related to the appearance of black stools, which may be the prelude to iron overload and toxicity.

The safe levels for children would be as follows:

• 4-11 months: 5 mg/day
• 1-3 years: 10 mg/day
• 4-6 years: 15 mg/day
• 7-10 years: 20 mg/day
• 11-14 years: 30 mg/day
• 15-17 years: 35 mg/day

In the case of persons with iron deficiency anemia who receive iron under medical supervision, these limits would not apply.