RELATION BETWEEN IN-VITRO AVAILABILITY OF MINERALS AND FOOD COMPOSITION - A MATHEMATICAL-MODEL

A mathematical model was developed to describe the relative influence of phytic acid, dietary fiber components, oxalic acid, citric acid and ascorbic acid on in vitro availability of Ca, Mg, Fe, Cu and Zn. The model was based on a combination of interdependent Langmuir isotherms. Throughout a diverse set of food products (cereal products, fruits, vegetables and nuts), the mathematical model described and predicted in vitro availability of Ca, Mg, Fe and Zn well (r = 0.89, 0.87, 0.90 and 0.92 respectively). The model proved valuable in studying simultaneous effects of food components on in vitro availability of minerals and trace elements in foods. Therefore, the mathematical model should help relate in vitro simulations to in vivo experiments.