We report an investigation on the iron status of 209 hospitalized 3-month--2-year-old infants over a 6-month period. Hematological parameters and infant feeding practice were determined: a total of 105 infants (50.2%) were found to be iron-depleted, with (24.8%) or without (25.4%) anemia. The mode of lactation appeared to be the main determining factor in iron deficiency, as shown by the fact that during the first months, breast feeding and consumption of an iron-fortified milk formula were 50% less frequent and of shorter duration in infants with iron deficiency than in normal infants. Incorrect diet was also more frequent in iron-deficient infants. It is concluded that iron deficiency in infants could be prevented by better informing mothers in order to encourage breast-feeding and develop the use of an iron-fortified milk formula until the infant reaches the age of one year.