Some baby formula brands contain lead, arsenic and other heavy metals, Consumer Reports says

Some popular baby formula brands contain heavy metals, including arsenic, lead and PFAS, or “forever” chemicals, according to a new report from Consumer Reports. 

The nonprofit consumer advocacy organization found that more than half of the 49 powdered, liquid, and alternative protein and hypoallergenic formulas it tested contained “potentially concerning levels” of harmful contaminants. 

“Repeated exposure to these contaminants can lead to negative health consequences for babies, especially because they are so small and all of their organ systems are still developing,” Sana Mujahid, Consumer Reports’ manager of food safety research and testing, told CBS News. “And sometimes, this isn’t their only source of exposure to these contaminants, which can also come from water.” 

While the market for infant formula is regulated, such products don’t always “escape the effects of environmental pollution or process contamination,” Consumer Reports said. There are also no limits on the levels of contaminants allowed in baby formulas in the U.S., while manufacturers aren’t required to test formula for their presence.

In an investigation last year, Consumer Reports found lead and arsenic in a number of powdered infant formulas. At the time, government food regulators pledged to increase oversight and testing of such products. 

Safe brands available

Consumer Reports found that, among the 23 liquid baby formulas it evaluated, eight were either free of any heavy metals or contained low levels.

“Fortunately, the results of our tests show that there are still many safe, inexpensive options for parents on the market today,” Consumer Reports said, noting that many such products are available through subsidized programs like the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children. 

About half of all baby formula purchased in the U.S. is made by two companies, Abbott Nutrition and Mead Johnson, Consumer Reports noted. Perrigo also makes many store-brand formulas.  

Abbott and Mead Johnson challenged Consumer Reports’ findings, saying that trace levels of heavy metals occur naturally in the environment and throughout the food supply. 

“Abbott’s infant formulas are safe, and parents can use them confidently,” a company spokesperson told Consumer Reports, adding that its infant formulas sold in the U.S. comply with heavy metal regulations in the EU and Canada. 

Mead Johnson told the publication it employs “stringent testing protocols” and takes steps to “reduce the levels of unintended materials in our products, which meet all safety and quality standards set by U.S. and global regulatory bodies.” 

Perrigo also said it assesses its products for risks and tests for contaminants. 

The companies didn’t immediately respond to a request for comment from CBS News.

Bill to tighten federal rules

Mujahid encouraged parents to speak with their child’s pediatrician about the formula they use and discuss any concerns. Consumer Reports also advises parents not to make their own formula and to ensure they use clean water when mixing powdered formula. 

A bill introduced by Sen. Gary Peters of Michigan last year, the Protect Infant Formula from Contamination Act, would require infant formula makers to notify the Food and Drug Administration within one business day of discovering contamination, misbranding or adulteration of infant formula. The measure passed the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee in January.