This study aimed at evaluating the modifications which occur in the nutritional status (anthropometry and hemoglobin) of pre school children who were submitted to intervention during a two month period with aminochelate iron enriched bread and cookies.

Children attending a municipal day-care center in the city of Barueri(SP/BR) were studied. At the beginning of the study and after two months their weight and height (Z-score) and hemoglobin (HB) levels were evaluated by means of digital puncture (Hemaglobinometer). Children who had Hb<9,5 g/dl in the first test were excluded. Children were divided into two groups: Group A (GA) 400 children aged 1-3y received 2 cookies (5g/day with 1mg of iron each), and Group B (GB) 896 children aged 4-6y who received a 50g/day bread with 2mg of iron. Results showed that both groups did not have any modification in anthropometric status. As for Hb, this increased 0,72g/dl in group A at the end of the study (means: Hb initial 11, 14 ± 1,0; Hb final 11,84± 1,13 p<0,05) and 0,74g/dl in group B (means: Hb initial 11,73± 1,07; Hb final 12,47±0,96). Both products were well accepted and no side effects were noticed. We conclude that the use of both enriched bread and cookies in school meals may be a way to prevent iron deficiency.