Ferric sodium edetate, also known as sodium ferric ethylenediaminetetraacetate, is a chemical compound formed by the combination of ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) and iron ions. Due to its excellent properties, it has been widely used in the development of new iron supplementation products.
The iron ion in ferric sodium edetate is in the +3 oxidation state, making it resistant to oxidation. EDTA forms a stable complex with Fe³⁺, which remains intact even in the presence of other metal ions in solution. As a result, EDTA-iron sodium exhibits excellent stability.
Ferric sodium edetate has high bioavailability. Compared to ferrous sulfate (FeSO₄), the bioavailability of iron in ferric sodium edetate-fortified foods is approximately twice that of FeSO₄ and four times that of other forms of iron (including electrolytic iron and reduced iron). Its absorption is not affected by food components that inhibit iron absorption, such as phytic acid. Therefore, it is suitable for addition to staple foods like grains, where it can safely and effectively provide the iron required by the body, helping to prevent and treat iron deficiency anemia and related conditions.
Ferric sodium edetate can be used as an iron fortifier in a variety of foods, such as fortified soy sauce and fortified flour. Due to its high bioavailability and stability, these foods can provide iron while maintaining the taste and quality of the product.
In certain medical treatments, ferric sodium edetate can be combined with other ingredients to enhance the effectiveness of the medication and reduce side effects. For example, it may be used as one of the components in treatments for iron deficiency anemia, providing a safe and effective means of supplementing iron.
As consumer demand for health foods continues to grow, ferric sodium edetate is also being widely applied in the development of functional foods. These products not only provide traditional nutritional value but also meet the specific iron needs of particular populations, such as pregnant women and children who are prone to iron deficiency.
With increasing attention to healthy diets and nutritional supplements, ferric sodium edetate holds significant promise for future applications in the development of new iron supplementation products. In the future, we can expect more iron supplementation products based on this compound to emerge, catering to the iron needs of different groups. With advancements in technology and the growing demand for innovation, ferric sodium edetate is also expected to see expanding applications in fields such as biomedical research, water purification, and soil remediation.
Thanks to its stability, high bioavailability, and safety, ferric sodium edetate has broad application value in the development of new iron supplementation products.