Study on iron availability from prepared soybean sprouts using an iron-deficient rat model

► High accumulation of ferritin was achieved during germination of soybean and lupin seeds in FeSO4 solution. ► Powdered sprouted seeds, isolates of ferritin and FeSO4 were compared as a source of iron for supplementation. ► Each of the examined preparations induced regression of iron deficiency anaemia in rats. ► The administration of powdered sprouts resulted in efficient rebuilding of iron stores in the liver.