The present study compared the effects of four different forms of foliar iron (Fe) fertilizers on Fe concentration, bioavailability and nutritional quality of polished rice. The results showed that foliar fertilisation
at the anthesis stage was an effective way to promote Fe concentration and bioavailability of polished
rice, especially in case of DTPA-Fe. Compared to the control, foliar application of DTPA-Fe increased
sulphur concentration and the nutrition promoter cysteine content, whereas decreased phosphorus
concentration and the antinutrient phytic acid content of polished rice, as a result increased 67.2% ferrtin
formation in Caco-2 cell. Moreover, foliar DTPA-Fe application could maintain amylase, protein and minerals quality of polished rice. According to the current study, DTPA-Fe is recommended as an excellent
foliar Fe form for Fe biofortification program