Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in baby foods and infant formulae

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) have been analysed in samples of commercial baby foods and infant formulae. The purpose of the survey was to determine the PAH concentrations, to assess the exposure of babies and infants and to produce data for comparison with proposed limits that were being considered at the time of the survey. The results showed that no samples would have exceeded the limit for benzo(a)pyrene (BaP), which is used as an indicator for the presence of PAHs.

111 samples of commercial baby foods and 97 samples of infant formula obtained from across the UK were tested for 15 PAHs. Most PAHs were not detected in the majority of samples.

No products contained benzo(a)pyrene (BaP) concentrations above the maximum permitted level of 1 microgram/kg (this limit came into force after the samples were taken) and most were substantially lower.

The BaP concentrations were in the ranges <0.01-0.2 microgram/kg in infant formulae and <0.01-1.0 microgram/kg in baby foods. BaP was below the limit of detection in 78 samples (74%) of baby food and 57 samples (59%) of infant formula.

Three samples of baby food contained raised levels of PAHs. Analysis of additional batches of these products did not show similar levels.

Expert advice states that human exposure to BaP should be minimised as far as is practicable. The estimated intakes from baby foods and infant formulae tested in this survey indicate a low concern for human health.