The primary objective of this study is to compare iron absorption of high surface area ferric phosphate with that of ferrous sulfate and bulk ferric phosphate in a rice-based meal in non-pregnant women.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Women of reproductive age (18 to 49 years) in Thailand
• BMI < 23 kg/m2
• Body weight < 65 kg
• Mildly anaemic to normocythemic (Hb 80-110 g/L)
• Ferritin < 25 µg/L
• Not pregnant (confirmed by pregnancy test stripe) or lactating
• No inflammation (CRP < 5 mg/L)
• Having provided written informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

• Haemoglobinopathies (except heterozygosity for haemoglobin E and alpha-thalassemia 1)
• Coeliac disease or other chronic diseases of malabsorption that could influence iron absorption or metabolism
• Blood donation or significant blood loss due to surgery or accident < 4 months before start of the study
• Consumption of vitamin or mineral supplements 2 weeks before start of the study
• Regular use of medication (except oral contraceptives), that influences iron absorption
• Chronic inflammatory disease
• Smoking