Water-soluble iron-carbohydrate derivative-complex (I), obtained from an aqueous iron (III) salt solution and an aqueous solution of the product of the oxidation and subsequent derivatization of one or more maltodextrin is new, where the oxidation is carried out with an aqueous hypochlorite solution in alkaline pH; the derivatization is carried out by using a reagent; and the dextrose equivalent of maltodextrin is 5-20 during the use of one maltodextrin, 5-20 during the use of a mixture of several maltodextrins and 2-40 for a mixture comprising a single maltodextrin. An independent claim is included for the preparation of (I). ACTIVITY : Antianemic. MECHANISM OF ACTION : None given.