Lead content in Spanish market infant formulas and toxicological contribution

Lead content was investigated in infant formulas by using graphite furnace atomic absorption spectroscopy (GFAAS). Formulas were distinguished as ‘beginner’, ‘continuation’ and ‘special infant formula’, the latter being classified as subtypes ‘hypoallergenic’, ‘without lactose’, ‘vegetable base’ and ‘others’. The mean concentrations of lead were 25.7±8.4, 36.9±6.4 and 43.5±16.3 μgkg−1 for beginner, continuation and special infant formula, respectively. Two-factor (types and subtypes) variance analyses were made and Tukey's mean homogeneity test (p <0.05) was also performed for the formation of homogeneous groups. Significant differences (p < 0.001) were observed between types and two homogeneous groups were formed by the special infant formula type, with the highest lead content; the other group was constituted by the beginner type; and included in both groups were the continuation type infant formula. Their contribution to the provisional weekly intake (PTWI) was calculated from the mean concentrations in each type of infant formula, showing them to be food with a low toxicological risk (<30% PTWI).