Iron deficiency is one of the most common nutritional shortfalls worldwide — the WHO estimates around 25% of the global population has anaemia, about half of it iron-related, with symptoms including persistent fatigue, low energy, irritability, poor concentration and pale skin. Vegifer is spirulina grown under specific conditions that allow natural iron enrichment. Unlike classic iron supplements that use synthetic iron salts (such as ferrous sulfate or gluconate), Vegifer’s iron is 100% plant-derived, integrated directly into the spirulina’s cell matrix. This natural integration makes the iron easier to absorb and significantly reduces the digestive side effects often seen with traditional iron supplements. The spirulina used is Spirulina platensis, prized for its nutrient density and high digestibility.

Three things set Vegifer’s iron apart from classic mineral iron salts. First, studies show the iron in spirulina is rapidly absorbed by the body — a preliminary in-vivo study comparing spirulina’s 100% plant iron with ferrous sulfate for correcting iron-deficiency anaemia found comparable or superior absorption. Second, unlike ferrous gluconate, Vegifer’s iron does not trigger an oxidative effect, meaning it is better tolerated at cellular level. Third, Vegifer does not cause the digestive side effects typically associated with iron salts — constipation, nausea, abdominal pain — as confirmed in a study of pregnant women.

Vegifer suits anyone with increased iron needs or at risk of deficiency. Daily iron needs are estimated at 16 mg for menstruating women, 25 mg for pregnant women, 14 mg for teenage girls (13–19), 12 mg for teenage boys of the same age, and 10 mg for breastfeeding women. Vegifer’s 12 mg of iron per 4-tablet daily dose covers a meaningful share of these needs. It also suits athletes, whose iron requirements increase with physical activity, and vegetarians and vegans who do not consume animal-derived haem iron.

Recommended dose: 4 tablets a day, ideally with meals and a large glass of water — split as 2 in the morning and 2 in the evening to optimise absorption throughout the day. Taking vitamin C at the same time (e.g. a glass of orange or lemon juice) further improves iron absorption. Avoid taking Vegifer alongside tea or coffee, as the tannins they contain can reduce iron absorption.

Vegifer is a food supplement, not a medicine, and cannot replace a medical treatment prescribed for diagnosed anaemia. If you suspect an iron deficiency, consult a doctor for a blood test and appropriate treatment. Formulated for adults and teenagers from age 13; for younger children, seek professional advice before any iron supplementation.

Can Vegifer replace a medical treatment for anaemia?

No. Vegifer is a food supplement and cannot substitute for a doctor-prescribed treatment in cases of diagnosed anaemia — always consult a healthcare professional first.

Is Vegifer suitable for children?

It is formulated for adults and teenagers from age 13. For younger children, seek advice from a healthcare professional before any iron supplementation, as needs vary greatly with age and growth stage.

What makes Vegifer’s iron different from standard iron supplements?

It is naturally integrated into the spirulina’s cell matrix rather than added as a synthetic salt, which improves absorption and largely avoids the digestive discomfort common with classic iron supplements.

Herba Barona is an independent specialist supplement shop in the heart of Paris — established in 2006. What you order is genuinely on our shelves: we ship from our own stock, with no dropshipping and no long waits.

Visit us at 10 rue Théophile Roussel, Paris 12 — or use Click & Collect and pick up your order in-store. We also deliver across France and Europe. Friendly, expert advice in English from our team.

Where is the shop?

Herba Barona is at 10 rue Théophile Roussel, 75012 Paris — a two-minute walk from Ledru-Rollin (line 8), close to Bastille. Open Tuesday to Saturday, 9:30 am–6:30 pm.

Can I order online or collect in store?

Yes. We ship across France and Europe under the same conditions as our French store, or choose Click & Collect to pick up your order for free at our Paris shop.