Final answer:
Exceeding the tolerable upper intake level of iron may lead to iron toxicity and conditions such as hemochromatosis and siderosis, which can result in organ damage.
Step-by-step explanation:
If Tony's dietary intake of iron exceeded the tolerable upper intake level, the possible consequence could be the risk of iron toxicity. Iron toxicity can occur when the body stores too much iron, leading to a condition called hemochromatosis. This condition can cause damage to vital organs such as the liver and pancreas. Another form of iron overload is siderosis, which can result from excessive iron in the body due to external factors like repeated blood transfusions or excessive iron absorption from diets or supplements.
For example, in nutritional siderosis observed among Bantus in South Africa, high dietary iron intake led to significant iron deposits in their livers. On the other hand, risk of iron deficiency anemia would not be a consequence of iron intake exceeding upper levels, as anemia is associated with inadequate levels of iron, not excess.