Evaluation of clams as a food source of iron: Total iron, heme iron, aluminum, and in vitro iron bioavailability in live and processed clams

► Clams are listed on prominent healthcare websites as excellent source of iron (Fe). ► In this study clams were assayed for Fe, Al, heme-iron, and iron bioavailability. ► Some clam products were very low in Fe and Fe bioavailability, some very high in Al. ► Live and minced clams should not be considered good sources of bio-available iron. ► High Al in whole baby clams raises concerns about recommending them as an Fe source.