Infant Formula in the U.S. is 'Safe,' According to FDA Analysis
· Telemundo McAllen (KTLM)
A new analysis of chemical substances in infant formula available in the United States has found reassuringly low levels of heavy metals, pesticides, and other potential contaminants, federal health officials reported on Wednesday. The review was conducted as part of the FDA’s Operation Stork Speed project, described as the 'largest and most rigorous' to date. The agency concluded that the infant formula supply is 'safe,' according to FDA officials and external experts. 'There’s no reason not to use any formula available' in the U.S., said Dr. Steven Abrams, a professor of pediatrics at the University of Texas at Austin, who reviewed the findings. FDA officials tested over 300 samples of commercial infant formula between 2023 and 2025 for heavy metals such as lead, arsenic, cadmium, and mercury. They also screened for pesticides, plastic-related chemicals known as phthalates, and PFAS, sometimes referred to as 'forever chemicals.' The agency reported that contaminant levels were either undetectable or very low. Detected heavy metals were well below limits set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for drinking water, and 99% of samples showed no traces of pesticides. Additionally, the FDA found no detections for 25 of the 30 PFAS compounds analyzed.