January 23, 2026
Plant-Based Nutrition Challenges: How Ferrochel® Supports Better Absorption
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Plant-based diets can lead to nutrient gaps. Discover how Ferrochel® chelated iron helps improve absorption and supports wellness.
Plant-based diets are widely recognized for their health benefits, including supporting heart health, and promoting overall wellness. They are also aligned with sustainability goals, making them an attractive choice for consumers seeking both personal and environmental benefits.
This growing interest has fueled a global movement. The plant-based food market is projected to triple in size, increasing from USD 11.3 billion in 2023 to USD 35.9 billion by 2033, with a CAGR of 12.2%.1 For brands, this represents a significant financial opportunity. However, alongside these benefits and market growth, plant-based diets introduce nutritional challenges that must be addressed to maintain consumer trust and support complete diets.
Why Are Nutrient Gaps Common in Plant-Based Diets?
Iron is one of the most significant concerns. The Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for
iron is 80% higher for vegetarians compared to non-vegetarians due to lower bioavailability of non-heme iron found in plants.2 Anti-nutrients like phytates, commonly present in grains, nuts, and seeds, can reduce iron absorption by up to 60%.3 For individuals managing weight, the challenge is even greater: reducing caloric intake by 30% can increase the prevalence of inadequate mineral intake by up to 225%, according to recent studies.4
How Do Chelated Minerals Improve Absorption?
Chelated minerals offer a science-backed solution to these gaps. Unlike conventional mineral salts, chelated minerals are bound to amino acids, which helps protect them from anti-nutrient interference and improves absorption. Ferrochel®, a patented iron bisglycinate chelate, has been shown to deliver up to ~5x greater absorption compared to ferrous sulfate in the presence of phytates.5 This superior bioavailability ensures that every milligram counts, especially for those following plant-based diets or calorie-controlled plans.
Better Tolerability and Technical Advantages
Beyond absorption, tolerability matters. Traditional iron salts are often associated with gastrointestinal discomfort, including nausea and constipation. Research shows that Ferrochel® is preferred nearly 2-to-1 over ferrous sulfate in clinical trials, thanks to fewer moderate to severe GI side effects. For formulators, chelated minerals also offer technical advantages such as greater solubility and stability, making them ideal for fortified foods, beverages, and supplements.
As plant-based diets continue to gain momentum, addressing nutrient gaps is essential for supporting overall health and meeting consumer expectations. Iron plays a critical role in energy and oxygen transport, yet its absorption from plant sources can be limited by factors such as anti-nutrients and dietary restrictions.
Support Plant-Based Nutrition Challenges with Ferrochel®
Chelated minerals like Ferrochel® offer a proven way to improve iron bioavailability and tolerability, helping consumers achieve their nutritional goals while enabling brands to deliver innovative, science-backed solutions.
Download our full white paper to explore the science behind chelated minerals and their role in plant-based diets.