Ferric citrate, also known as iron(III) citrate, is a coordination complex formed from citric acid and ferric ions. Its exact stoichiometry can vary, often represented as FeC6H5O7. It appears as a reddish-brown or greenish-yellow powder or granules and is soluble in water. Its primary and well-defined application is as a food additive and dietary supplement, specifically as an iron fortificant. It is used to enrich foods like flour, cereals, and infant formula to prevent and treat iron-deficiency anemia. It is generally considered to have good bioavailability and is less likely to cause gastrointestinal irritation compared to some other iron salts like ferrous sulfate. In the pharmaceutical industry, it serves as an iron source in multivitamin/mineral preparations and specific iron supplements. Beyond nutritional use, ferric citrate has applications in water treatment as a phosphate binder and coagulant. A notable medical application is its use as a phosphate binder for the control of hyperphosphatemia in patients with chronic kidney disease, particularly those on dialysis.