摘要 : BACKGROUND: Sodium iron ethylenediaminetetraacetic acetate (NaFeEDTA) is a promising iron fortificant for populations consuming high-phytate diets. It produces fewer organoleptic effects than other fortificants do, especially when... 展开 BACKGROUND: Sodium iron ethylenediaminetetraacetic acetate (NaFeEDTA) is a promising iron fortificant for populations consuming high-phytate diets. It produces fewer organoleptic effects than other fortificants do, especially when the matrix of the food vehicle contains fat, and has a bioavailability two to four times higher than that of ferrous sulfate. This study investigated the effects of varying levels of NaFeEDTA (576-1152 mg kg^--1) on the physicochemical and sensory characteristics of Petit Beurre biscuits. RESULTS: There were no significant differences in pH, ash, moisture and breaking strength values among all formulae. The iron content (7.2-14.4 mg per 100 g) of the biscuits increased with increasing fortificant level. During a 60 day storage period the peroxide value increased in both fortified and non-fortified formulae, especially after 28 days. The addition of NaFeEDTA had a significant (<i>P</i> < 0.05) effect on the colour, texture and flavour of fortified biscuits. CONCLUSION: Based on the range proposed for the use of NaFeEDTA as a fortification agent (10 mg iron and 67 mg EDTA per person per day), the results of this study reveal that 720 mg kg^--1 NaFeEDTA (9 mg iron per 100 g) is the optimum level for iron fortification in Petit Beurre biscuits. 收起