Best iron-rich foods for vegans

Discover a comprehensive guide to essential plant-based iron-rich foods for a balanced vegan diet. Explore options such as legumes, nuts, seeds, and leafy greens that help maintain optimal iron levels. This selection is ideal for those seeking non-heme iron sources and tips to enhance absorption. Find inspiration to incorporate these ingredients into your daily meals and ensure adequate nutrition.

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  1. 1

    Chickpeas

    299 Global Votes
    • Plant-based source of iron

      (+4)

    Chickpeas are another fundamental legume for vegans, providing a good dose of iron along with protein and fiber. Their popularity in various cuisines makes them easy to integrate into a varied and nutritious diet.

  2. 2

    Brewer's yeast

    52 Global Votes
    • Rich source of chromium

      (+4)

    Brewer's yeast is a natural supplement highly valued in the vegan diet for its richness in iron and B vitamins. It is easy to incorporate by sprinkling it over meals, adding flavor and nutrients.

  3. 3

    Quinoa

    49 Global Votes
    • Good source of plant-based protein

      (+4)

    Quinoa is a complete, gluten-free pseudocereal notable for its significant iron content, in addition to protein and fiber. It is an excellent base for a multitude of dishes, from salads to breakfasts.

  4. 4

    Oats

    43 Global Votes
    • Contains 2.1 mg iron per cup cooked

      (+2)

    Oats are a very versatile whole grain cereal and a good source of iron, ideal for starting the day with energy. In addition, they provide soluble fiber, beneficial for cardiovascular and digestive health.

  5. 5

    Lentils

    12 Global Votes
    • Naturally high in iron and protein

      (+4)

    Lentils are an exceptional source of non-heme iron, providing a significant amount of this essential mineral for vegans. Additionally, they are rich in fiber and protein, making them a very complete and versatile food in the diet.

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  7. 6

    Kale

    12 Global Votes
    • Contains iron

      (+1)

    Kale is a very nutritious dark leafy green vegetable, recognized as an excellent source of iron and other micronutrients. It is ideal for smoothies, salads, or as a side dish, contributing to a mineral-rich vegan diet.

  8. 7

    Amaranth

    9 Global Votes
    • Rich with lysine

      (+4)

    Amaranth is a pseudocereal with an impressive iron content, making it an excellent choice for vegans. It is a nutritious alternative to other cereals and can be used in a variety of preparations.

  9. 8

    Beans

    2 Global Votes
    • Great source of iron

      (+3)

    Beans, in their various varieties, are a robust source of iron and other essential nutrients for vegans. They are very versatile and can form the base of numerous nutritious and filling dishes.

  10. 9

    Tofu

    0 Global Votes
    • Good source of iron

      (+4)

    Tofu, derived from soybeans, is an excellent meat substitute and a concentrated source of iron for vegans. Its versatility allows it to be used in a wide variety of dishes, facilitating the intake of this mineral.

  11. 10

    Pumpkin Seeds

    0 Global Votes
    • Good source of iron for vegans

      (+4)

    Pumpkin seeds are small concentrations of nutrients, notable for their content of iron, omega-3 fatty acids, magnesium, and zinc. They are ideal as a snack or for enriching salads and vegan yogurts.

  12. 11

    Spinach

    0 Global Votes
    • Contains iron

      (+2)

    Spinach is a dark leafy green vegetable highly valued in the vegan diet for its high content of iron and vitamin C. This combination is crucial, as vitamin C significantly improves the absorption of non-heme iron.

  13. 12

    Parsley

    0 Global Votes
    • Provides 21% DV of vegan iron per cup

      (+2)

    Parsley is an aromatic herb that, in addition to enhancing the flavor of dishes, is surprisingly rich in iron. Its easy incorporation into daily cooking makes it an ally for increasing the intake of this mineral.

  14. 13

    Sesame seeds

    0 Global Votes
    • Rich in heme iron

      (+4)

    Sesame seeds are small but powerful in nutrients, being a good source of iron for vegans. Their use in tahini or sprinkled over dishes makes them easy to incorporate into the daily diet.

  15. 14

    Broccoli

    0 Global Votes
    • Contains 1 mg of iron per cup

      (+1)

    Although its iron content is moderate, broccoli is crucial for vegans due to its high vitamin C content. This vitamin is essential for maximizing the absorption of non-heme iron from other foods.