The effect of dechitinization on iron absorption from mealworm larvae (Tenebrio molitor) flour added to maize meals: stable-isotope studies in young females with low iron stores.

T. molitor biomass does not strongly affect iron absorption when added to maize porridge. Our data suggest T. molitor iron is absorbed from the common nonheme iron pool. Native T. molitor is high in iron which is moderately well absorbed, suggesting it could be a valuable dietary iron source.This trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT04510831.