Quality evaluation of iron-containing food supplements in the Palestinian market

Abstract

Iron is widely used to treat anemia and is prescribed or sold as an over-the-counter drug and food supplement in the local market as well as community pharmacy. The iron supplements available in the Palestinian market were tested for their claimed iron content (% assay) and microbial contamination. Altogether, 18 samples of different pharmaceutical dosage forms were collected from the Palestinian market. These samples represented both local and international markets. The actual iron content in the sample products was determined using potentiometric titration and atomic absorption methods. Moreover, bacterial and fungal contaminations were tested according to international pharmacopeial methods. Results revealed that 72% of the tested samples failed the test, and most of them exceeded the standard limit. The results varied according to source and dosage form. This shows that the iron supplements in the Palestinian markets do not meet the international standard allowable limits. Responsible authorities must take an urgent action. In particular, the Ministry of Health should take corrective actions, such as monitoring the registration and performing regular quality checks on imported and local products.

Microbiome research potential for developing holistic approaches to improve refugee health

“…39,40 The prevailing scarcity, enforced blockade, geographic isolation, and displacement also means an increased risk of exposure to substandard, expired or counterfeited medical supplies -including antibiotics. [41][42][43] Consequently, the situation in Gaza bears the hallmarks of having reached or even exceeded, the minimum threshold for prompt action. The prevailing COVID-19 pandemic has managed to strain the medical care systems of even well-resourced, and medically advanced nations.…”

Characterisation and antioxidant activity of polysaccharide iron (III) complex in Qingzhuan Dark Tea

“…It can affect the immune function of the body to some extent. It is an indispensable substance that maintains various normal physiological processes and plays a key role in the human body (Abualhasan et al, 2021). Iron is present in human tissues and organs mainly in two forms, namely functional iron and stored iron.…”