Higher iron pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum L.) provides more absorbable iron that is limited by increased polyphenolic content (Nutrition Journal)

Background: Our objective was to compare the capacity of iron (Fe) biofortified and standard pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum L.) to deliver Fe for hemoglobin (Hb)-synthesis. Pearl millet (PM) is common in West-Africa and India, and is well adapted to growing areas characterized by drought, low-soil fertility, and high-temperature. Because of its tolerance to difficult growing conditions, it can be grown in areas where other cereal crops, such as maize, would not survive. It accounts for approximately 50% of the total world-production of millet. Given the widespread use of PM in areas of the world affected by Fe-deficiency, it is important to establish whether biofortified-PM can improve Fe-nutriture. Methods: Two isolines of PM, a low-Fe-control (`DG-9444`, Low-Fe) and biofortified (`ICTP-8203 Fe`,High-Fe) in Fe (26mug and 85mug-Fe/g, respectively) were used. PM-based diets were formulated to meet the nutrient requirements for the broiler (Gallus-gallus) except for Fe (Fe concentrations were 22.1+/-0.52 and 78.6+/-0.51mug-Fe/g for the Low-Fe and High-Fe diets, respectively). For 6-weeks, Hb, feed-consumption and body-weight were measured (n=12). Results: Improved Fe-status was observed in the High-Fe group, as suggested by total-Hb-Fe values (15.5+/-0.8 and 26.7+/-1.4mg, Low-Fe and High-Fe respectively, P