Baby food: traces of these three pesticides in 6,5% of milk powder and baby food samples analyzed by EFSA

New EFSA survey reveals that 6,5% of baby and baby food sold in Europe has residues of chemicals such as chlorates and copper compounds

Don't store avocado like this: it's dangerous

Baby foods should be among the most controlled and safe of all, yet this is not always the case. In some cases they hide bitter surprises and can be potentially dangerous for their health. This is confirmed by the data of the latest EFSA (European Food Safety Authority) report on residues of pesticides in food. In addition to examining the fruit, vegetables and other foods marketed in European countries, EFSA wanted to investigate products intended for children.

Fortunately, the picture that emerges is not alarming, but during the monitoring - conducted in 2020 - traces of some substances were found that can represent a risk for children.

The results of the monitoring on baby food

In total, the food samples analyzed in the various European countries were 1641. The analyzes were mainly conducted on infant formula, such as powdered milk and cereal-based foods for children and babies. The monitoring revealed that 91,7% (equal to 1505 samples) of the foods in question did not contain traces of pesticides.

However, chemical residues were detected in 6,5% of cases, although in most cases within the maximum limits set by law (with an increase of 0,9% compared to the survey dating back to 2019).

The chemicals detected

But what are the pesticides found in baby food? Among the substances found in baby food sold in Europe we find:

• copper compounds (in 108 samples), especially in powdered milk, weaning products and grain-based baby foods
• bromide ion (in 13 samples), in various types of baby food
• chlorates (in 6 samples), mainly found in infant, weaning and cereal-based foods

This is by no means the first time that controversial substances end up contaminating food for little ones. A test conducted a few months ago revealed that some of the multigrain creams for weaning babies, sold in our country by big brands, contain traces of heavy metals such as lead and arsenic.

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Source: Efsa 

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