<P> The absorption of dietary iron is a variable and dynamic process . The amount of iron absorbed compared to the amount ingested is typically low , but may range from 5 % to as much as 35 % depending on circumstances and type of iron . The efficiency with which iron is absorbed varies depending on the source . Generally the best - absorbed forms of iron come from animal products . Absorption of dietary iron in iron salt form ( as in most supplements ) varies somewhat according to the body 's need for iron , and is usually between 10 % and 20 % of iron intake . Absorption of iron from animal products , and some plant products , is in the form of heme iron , and is more efficient , allowing absorption of from 15 % to 35 % of intake . Heme iron in animals is from blood and heme - containing proteins in meat and mitochondria , whereas in plants , heme iron is present in mitochondria in all cells that use oxygen for respiration . </P>
<P> The absorption of dietary iron is a variable and dynamic process . The amount of iron absorbed compared to the amount ingested is typically low , but may range from 5 % to as much as 35 % depending on circumstances and type of iron . The efficiency with which iron is absorbed varies depending on the source . Generally the best - absorbed forms of iron come from animal products . Absorption of dietary iron in iron salt form ( as in most supplements ) varies somewhat according to the body 's need for iron , and is usually between 10 % and 20 % of iron intake . Absorption of iron from animal products , and some plant products , is in the form of heme iron , and is more efficient , allowing absorption of from 15 % to 35 % of intake . Heme iron in animals is from blood and heme - containing proteins in meat and mitochondria , whereas in plants , heme iron is present in mitochondria in all cells that use oxygen for respiration . </P>
the most readily absorbed form of iron in the diet is
the most readily absorbed form of iron in the diet is
animal products
animal products