Phytate and zinc content of Italian diets.

The aim of the present work is to investigate the interrelationship between phytate and zinc in some Italian diets. Phytic acid and zinc content were determined and the phytate:zinc molar ratios calculated in 13 Italian diets. This ratio, rather than the values of phytate and zinc separately, allows a more correct understanding of the zinc availability in these diets. Only one diet, with a molar ratio of 11, indicates some risk of zinc deficiency. All other diets show a satisfactory phytate:zinc molar ratio.