Sources and Levels of Cadmium and Lead Contamination in Infant Weaning Food (MPASI)

Complementary breastfeeding (MPASI) is an important stage in meeting the nutritional needs of babies after 6 months of age. However, contamination of heavy metals, such as lead (Pb) and cadmium (Cd), in complementary foods can be a serious threat to the health of babies who have a more vulnerable metabolism than adults. The aim of this study is to identify the level of heavy metal contamination (Pb and Cd) in complementary food products circulating in Indonesia. The method used in this study uses atomic absorption spectroscopy (SSA), the preparation method uses the destruction of a microwave system with a combination of 65% HNO₃ and 30% H₂O₂ solvents (7:1). The results showed that all MPASI products (A, B, C, and D) studied contained Cd and Pb exceeding the maximum limit set by World Health Organization (WHO) (Cd < 0.010 mg/L and Pb < 0.020 mg/L), the highest concentrations of Cd and Pb were found in the sample code C (chicken) of 0.63 ± 0.0397 and 2.21 ± 0.1868 mg/L, respectively. This study is expected to provide scientific data that supports the strengthening of food safety regulations and increase public awareness of the importance of choosing safe complementary foods.