Occurrence and determination of inorganic contaminants in baby food and infant formula

Inorganic contaminants, including those commonly known as 'heavy metals' (cadmium, arsenic, lead and mercury) and others like aluminum, copper, zinc, and nickel, may be present in baby foods such as infant formulas, cereals, snacks, prepared meals, and jarred fruits and vegetables. Children, babies and toddlers are more vulnerable to these toxic elements due to their immature development and high 'food intake/body weight' ratio. The most important adverse effects of inorganic contaminants for infants include: anemia, nephrotoxicity, developmental, and reproductive toxicity, lower intelligence quotient (IQ), and neurotoxic effects. As this topic represents a relevant food safety issue, this article aims to review recent data about the occurrence of inorganic contaminants in baby foods, regulatory aspects, exposure assessment, as well as analytical methods for their determination. The available information reinforces the importance of standardizing routine quality control and reducing inorganic contaminants levels in infant formula and baby foods.