The quality of food is paramount for the healthy growth and development of children, with nutrients and contaminants like mercury playing significant roles here. In this study, the levels of total mercury (THg) and methylmercury (MeHg) in infant formulas such as the first infant formula, hypoallergenic formula, comfort formula against colic and constipation, and anti-reflux formula were investigated. A validated and optimized cold atomic absorption spectrometry method of direct thermal decomposition with gold amalgamation was used. Analysis revealed notable variations in THg and MeHg levels among products. Basic infant formulas were characterized by the highest average and median THg values (6.14 μg/kg, and 3.27 μg/kg, respectively), while hypoallergenic preparations showed the lowest THg content (1.069 μg/kg on average and 0.922 μg/kg for the median). Methylmercury levels were the lowest in preparations meant to treat constipation and colic, whereas anti-reflux formulas were characterized by the highest mean and median values. Based on the evaluation of the Provisional Tolerable Weekly Intake realization for THg, and MeHg, it was determined that the mercury content in infant formulas was within acceptable consumption limits. However, the target hazard quotient, and the total hazard index revealed elevated mercury levels in certain products, potentially posing health risks.
Authors
- Kornelia Kadac-Czapska,
- dr inż. Małgorzata Rutkowska link open in new tab ,
- Eliza Knez,
- prof. dr hab. inż. Piotr Konieczka link open in new tab ,
- dr hab. n. farm. Małgorzata Grembecka
Additional information
- DOI
- Digital Object Identifier link open in new tab 10.1016/j.jfca.2023.105799
- Category
- Publikacja w czasopiśmie
- Type
- artykuły w czasopismach
- Language
- angielski
- Publication year
- 2024
