Evaluation of Heavy Metals Profile in Different Brands of Infant Food Nutrition

The concentrations of five essential metals in six selected (NAN, Cowbell, MY BOY, CERELAC, FRISO GOLD and NUTREND) infant formulae sold in Makurdi metropolis, were determined using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer. Data collected were subjected to Analysis of Variance using SPSS 24 statistical software package. Significant differences in means were separated using Duncan Multiple Range Test. There was significant difference in the levels of the trace metals in the different brands of infant formula milk. The results of the toxic trace metals show that Cr has the highest concentration of 6.175 ±0.001 mg/kg (Cowbell), when compared to other toxic trace metals analyzed. Milk based infant formula showed copper concentration ranged from 2.55±0.001– 6.357±0.001mg/kg, which was higher than the provisional tolerable daily intake of copper that is 3 mg/kg. Chromium, Copper, Manganese and lead were detected in the six brands of infant formula milk but they were below the limits set by World Health Organization (WHO). However, the intake levels of Cd in this study from these concentrations were below the WHO limits. These results validate and in some cases counter earlier reports on the composition of infant formula found in our local markets. Therefore, the concentrations of the studied elements were within the safe limits recommended by National Industrial Standard and the Institute of Medicine for foods but higher concentrations of trace metals in some brands of infant formulae above the recommended limit pose a risk of bioaccumulation.