I first wrote about the Lucky Iron Fish in January 2022 after several months of use, and followed up with an 18-month update in 2023. Now that more than three years have passed, I thought it was time for another update. Do I still use it? Has my opinion changed? And would I still recommend it today?
One reason I still like the Lucky Iron Fish is that it fits my general preference for simple, low-tech solutions. Much like growing perennial vegetables or saving seed, it's a one-time purchase that can potentially provide benefits for many years without ongoing expense.
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If you'd like to check the current price or read customer reviews, you can find the Lucky Iron Fish on Amazon.
If you're unfamiliar with the product, you may want to start with my original Lucky Iron Fish review, where I explain what it is and why I decided to try it.
I also published an 18-month update covering my experience after the initial honeymoon period.
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| Lucky Iron Fish - 3 years of use and no rust |
Quick Verdict
Ease of Use: 4.5/5
Durability: 5/5
Value for Money: 5/5
Effectiveness: 4/5
Overall Recommendation: 4.5/5
What Is the Lucky Iron Fish?
For anyone new to the concept, the Lucky Iron Fish is a small cast-iron cooking tool designed to increase the iron content of food and liquids. It is typically simmered in water or soups with a small amount of acid, such as lemon juice, to help release iron during cooking.
For a more detailed explanation of how it works, see my original review.
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| Lucky Iron Fish after 3 years of use - other side |
My Experience After More Than Three Years
One thing that has surprised me is how easily the Lucky Iron Fish became part of my routine. What initially felt like an extra step in cleaning up after dinner gradually became a habit.
Over the past three years I've probably used the Lucky Iron Fish several hundred times, mostly when making soups, vegetable stocks, and slow-cooked stews. Aside from some minor surface discoloration, and a few scratches, it looks much the same as when I bought it.
Even after years of use, my Lucky Iron Fish has no rust. I use it, dry it, and put it away. It's really very simple.
Since I started using the Lucky Iron Fish, I haven't felt the need to stop using it or switch to iron supplements. While I can't prove exactly how much it contributes compared with diet and other factors, I still consider it worthwhile enough to keep using regularly after three years.
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| Lucky Iron Fish just removed from water |
What's Changed Since My 18-Month Update?
- I still use it regularly.
- It hasn't developed any rust.
- It has held up physically with no signs of wearing out.
- Using it has become automatic rather than something I need to remember.
- My opinion of the product remains largely unchanged.
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| Lucky Iron Fish boiling in water |
Has It Improved My Iron Intake?
This is probably the question people ask most often.
While I cannot say with certainty that every change in my health is due to the Lucky Iron Fish alone, I believe it has been a useful addition to my overall approach to maintaining healthy iron levels. Diet, general health and other lifestyle factors all play a role, so it is difficult to isolate any single factor.
My experience has been positive enough that I have continued using it long after the novelty wore off.
Things I Like About the Lucky Iron Fish
- Simple to use
- No ongoing costs
- No batteries or electronics
- Durable and long-lasting
- Easy to store
- Cost-effective over many years
If these advantages sound appealing, you can view the latest price and customer reviews for the Lucky Iron Fish here.
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| Lucky Iron fish and an organic lemon from my tree |
Drawbacks After Three Years
No product is perfect.
The biggest drawback is remembering to use it consistently. Like many healthy habits, the benefits depend on regular use.
It also works best in recipes where it can simmer for a while, which means it is not suitable for every meal. Some people may find the extra step inconvenient.
One challenge is that it's difficult to know exactly how much benefit you're getting. Unlike taking a supplement with a measured dosage, the amount of iron released depends on how it's used and what you're cooking. People looking for precise supplementation may prefer a different approach.
Is the Lucky Iron Fish Still Worth Buying in 2026?
For me, yes.
After more than three years of ownership, it has proven durable, inexpensive over the long term and easy to incorporate into everyday cooking. I still use it regularly, which is probably the strongest endorsement I can give.
If you're interested in trying it yourself, you can check current price of the Lucky Iron Fish on Amazon.
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| Lucky Iron Fish - dry with tea towel after use while hot |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Lucky Iron Fish really work?
The Lucky Iron Fish is designed to release small amounts of iron into food during cooking. Individual results will vary depending on diet, health and consistency of use.
How long does the Lucky Iron Fish last?
Based on my experience, at least three years and likely much longer. Mine has been used hundreds of times and still functions exactly as it did when new.
Can the Lucky Iron Fish rust?
It can develop surface rust if not cared for properly. I just wipe it dry with a tea towel while it is still hot, and mine has no rust after more than three years of use.
Is the Lucky Iron Fish worth the money?
For people looking for a long-term, reusable option, I think it offers excellent value. For people looking for a reusable long-term option, I think the Lucky Iron Fish offers excellent value for money.
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| Lucky Iron Fish, slotted spoon, lemon, saucepan |
Related Products I Use
- Lucky Iron Fish or Lucky Iron Leaf
- Slotted spoon - I could not use the Lucky Iron Fish without this
- tea towel - for drying the Lucky Iron Fish after use
- Lemon juicer
Final Thoughts After Three Years
Three years later, my opinion remains positive. The Lucky Iron Fish has become one of those simple kitchen tools that quietly does its job without much attention.
Perhaps the strongest endorsement I can give is that after more than three years, I still use the Lucky Iron Fish regularly rather than leaving it forgotten in the back of a kitchen drawer. If I lost it tomorrow, I would buy another one.
If you'd like to see how my experience evolved over time, you can also read my original review from 2022 and my 18-month update from 2023.
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