Which food is NOT a plant source of iron?

Which food is NOT a plant source of iron?

• A. Lentils
• B. Chickpeas
• C. Tofu
• D. Chicken

Answer: (D)

The choice of chicken as the food that is not a plant source of iron is correct because chicken is an animal product. Unlike lentils, chickpeas, and tofu, which are all derived from plants and are excellent sources of non-heme iron, chicken provides heme iron, which is found in animal products. Heme iron is generally more readily absorbed by the body compared to non-heme iron, which is found in plant sources. This distinction is crucial for individuals who are planning their diets based on iron sources, especially vegetarians and vegans who rely on plant-based options to meet their iron needs.

The choice of chicken as the food that is not a plant source of iron is correct because chicken is an animal product. Unlike lentils, chickpeas, and tofu, which are all derived from plants and are excellent sources of non-heme iron, chicken provides heme iron, which is found in animal products. Heme iron is generally more readily absorbed by the body compared to non-heme iron, which is found in plant sources. This distinction is crucial for individuals who are planning their diets based on iron sources, especially vegetarians and vegans who rely on plant-based options to meet their iron needs.