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To date, there are more than 80 ergot alkaloids identified; their distribution depends on different factors (e.g. geographic regions, host plants). These toxins can cause acute and chronic toxic effects on human health and commonly infect cereal crops such as triticale and rye, wheat, barley and oats. Considering the growing consumption of plant-based foods, the European Food Safety Authority has highlighted the need to develop risk assessment strategies. This work focused on the optimization of extraction efficiency, to quantify the main ergot alkaloids and their epimers, that are available on the market without any legal restriction (ergosine, ergocristine, ergocriptyne, ergocornine, ergosinine, ergocristinine, ergocriptinine and ergocorninine). Considering the quantification of 8 out of 12 regulated compounds by EU (sum of –ine and –inine forms), this approach can be defined as a screening method for a reliable estimation of the risk, specifically devoted to industrial stakeholders that can then possibly outsource to authorized external labs only the samples suspected of significant positivity. The effectiveness of three different extraction conditions (acidic, alkaline and neutral) followed by a rapid clean-up using dispersive solid-phase extraction with C18 sorbent was evaluated by ultra-performance liquid chromatography tandem quadrupole mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS), resulting in a short chromatographic run (16 min). The method was developed and validated in five different cereal production chains (rye, oat, wheat, wheat gluten and baby food). The applicability of the method was examined by analyzing a set of 54 samples, including also other cereals like spelt, tritordeum and triticale, and evaluating also some reference materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We evaluated the co-occurrence of arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), and lead (Pb) in 10 categories of processed foods intended for infants and young children (<2 years old) and adapted methodology to characterise and evaluate the impact of correlations on toxic element (TE) concentrations in these foods. Co-occurrence was assessed by calculating the frequency of samples having concentrations above the limit of detection (LOD) among TE sets (i.e. As-Cd, As-Pb, Cd-Pb, and As-Cd-Pb). Pairwise correlations were evaluated using two statistical approaches adapted to censored data: (i) non-parametric Kendall's tau and (ii) parametric Bayesian modelling. Nonparametric and parametric correlation analyses showed similar results. We found positive correlations among one or more pairs of the TEs (As, Pb, and Cd) in 9 of the 10 categories of foods intended for infants and young children and a negative correlation for one TE pair for a single food category. Where positive correlations are observed, removing samples with high concentrations of a given TE reduces the mean of the other TEs in that food. We also explored the impact of correlations among TEs on the fraction of the supply below maximum levels. Positive correlations among TEs have the potential to reduce the impact on the supply when setting multiple maximum levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

3-Monochloropropanediol fatty acid esters (3-MCPDE) and glycidyl esters (GE) are well-identified processing-induced chemical toxicants detected in infant formula and baby foods worldwide. We analysed the levels of 3-MCPDE and GE in infant formula and baby food products available in Saudi Arabia, followed by a dietary risk assessment for exposure to these contaminants in infants and young children from birth to 3 years. Eighty-five commercial infant formulas (n = 35) and baby foods (n = 50) available for consumption by infants and babies purchased from the Saudi market during 2022 were analysed for these contaminants using gas chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. 3-MCPDE and GE were detected in 100 and 80% of the samples, with a mean concentration of 57 µg/kg (range: 2–285 µg/kg) and 30 µg/kg (range: not detected–217 µg/kg), respectively. The highest concentration was found in milk-based formula for infants 0–6 months (285 µg/kg) and the lowest was found in fruit purees (2 µg/kg). Preliminary exposure and risk assessment showed increased exposure to 3-MCPDE for infants exclusively fed infant formula with exposure declining with age due to the introduction of solid foods. GE exposure levels reached 0.8 µg/kg body weight per day, which declined over time with margin of exposure values below 25,000. These results indicate that the levels of 3-MCPDE and GE in infant formula may pose potential risks to infants exclusively fed formula; therefore, adopting EU regulations should reduce the presence of these processing contaminants in essential infant foods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In response to the need for better guidance and regulation for commercially produced infant and toddler foods and beverages, the WHO Regional Office for Europe published a Nutrient and Promotion Profile Model (hereafter NPPM) in 2022. This study assessed the nutritional and promotional profile of infant and toddler foods (for ages 6–36 months) sold in Australian supermarkets in 2022 using the NPPM. The main types of claims used for product promotion were also examined and results were presented by category and by packaging type. Nutrient and claims data were extracted for commercially produced infant and toddler products from The George Institute's FoodSwitch database. Products were classified according to NPPM food categories and assessed against relevant nutritional and promotional requirements. Of the 309 products examined, 78% failed to meet the nutritional requirements of the NPPM, and 0% met the promotional requirements. Every product had at least one claim on‐pack that was prohibited under the NPPM, with some products displaying up to 21 different claims on‐pack. Pouches had the highest number of prohibited claims of all packaging types. Findings highlight that urgent work is needed to improve the nutritional quality of commercially produced infant and toddler foods in Australia. The high use of prohibited claims also suggests the need to regulate the type and number of claims that can be made on‐pack, as parents and carers could easily be misled by the deceptive labelling that is currently allowed to be displayed. Key messages: Every commercially produced infant and toddler food product available in Australian supermarkets in 2022 failed to meet World Health Organization recommendations for product promotion.A total of 78% of products did not meet the overall nutritional requirements. This was most commonly due to products failing energy and total sugar content requirements.Up to 21 different claims were found on product packaging, with products on average displaying 6.7 claims.Pouches, which have experienced rapid growth in the infant and toddler food market in Australia, currently represent more than 50% of all products available on supermarket shelves. This is concerning, given these products had the highest use of prohibited claims. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is recommended that infants are introduced to complementary foods from 6 months old, moving from a solely milk diet to eating a family diet by 12 months old. Although home cooking of family foods is recommended, a rapidly growing market producing baby food products (BFP) such as jars, pouches and snacks has developed. These are often accompanied by marketing claims around nutritional, health and developmental impacts despite research highlighting high sugar content. Although numerous studies have explored drivers of infant formula choice and use, little research has examined the drivers of BFP use. This study used an online survey for United Kingdom parents of infants aged 4–12 months to explore use of BFP alongside perceptions and drivers to purchase products. Overall, 271 parents participated (173 used BFP and 98 did not), with a descriptive analysis of closed items and a thematic analysis for open ended text conducted. The top motivators for using BFP were convenience, time saving, and baby's perceived enjoyment of products. The most purchased puree was fruit based and the most purchased baby snacks were vegetable puffs/sticks, with snack purchases being more common than purees in this sample. Aspects such as perceived healthiness drove choice, with snack foods being seen to enhance self‐feeding skills, appetite regulation and motor development. Those who did not use BFP did not trust them and preferred to feed their baby home cooked foods. The findings are important for professionals working with parents, to support them through the transition to solid foods, particularly around raising awareness of marketing techniques and how to check content of foods to make a more informed choice. Key messages: Parents had multiple reasons for using BFP. The most common motivators were convenience, time saving and infants' perceived enjoyment of them.Some parents perceive baby food products to have nutritional benefits due to health halo statements on packaging. Statements such as low in salt or high in fibre led to perceptions that the product was healthy.Baby snacks were the most common BFPs used, sometimes by parents who did not use purees as self‐feeding was seen to support development. Almost a quarter offered baby puffs daily compared to one in six using fruit purees daily. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses a case of allergic contact dermatitis in an adoptive mother who developed eczema on her nipples, areolas, and fingers after using a supplemental nursing system (SNS) with infant formula to breastfeed her adopted baby. Patch testing revealed a positive reaction to the formula and nickel, with suspicions raised about metal contamination during formula preparation. The patient's eczema healed with corticosteroid treatment, and she remained lesion-free during a 14-month follow-up. This case underscores the importance of considering ACD from infant formula as a potential cause of nipple eczema in breastfeeding mothers, especially those using SNS. [Extracted from the article]

Acrylamide (AA) is a contaminant resulting from the Maillard reaction and classified by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) as a probable carcinogen in Group 2A, with proven neurotoxic effects on humans. European Union (EU) Regulation No. 2017/2158 is currently in force, which establishes measures meant to reduce AA levels in food and sets reference values, but not legal limits, equal to 40 and 150 μg/kg AA in processed cereal-based foods intended for infants and young children and in biscuits and rusks, respectively. For this reason, sixty-two baby foods were analyzed using ultra-high performance liquid chromatography with diode array detector and quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UHPLC-DAD-Q-TOF/MS) to check whether industries were complying with these values, even though AA control is not legally mandatory. In total, 14.5% of the samples exceeded the reference values; these were homogenized chicken products (211.84 ± 16.53, 154.32 ± 12.71, 194.88 ± 7.40 μg/kg), three biscuits (276.36 ± 0.03, 242.06 ± 0.78, 234.78 ± 4.53 μg/kg), a wheat semolina (46.07 ± 0.23 μg/kg), a homogenized product with plaice and potatoes (45.52 ± 0.28 μg/kg), and a children's snack with milk and cocoa (40.95 ± 0.32 μg/kg). Subsequently, the daily intake of AA was estimated, considering the worst-case scenario, as provided by the consumption of homogenized chicken products and biscuits. The results are associated with margins of exposure (MOEs) that are not concerning for neurotoxic effects but are alarming for the probable carcinogenic effects of AA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Exposure of infants to chemicals during their development will have major effects on their health. One of the major exposures of infants to chemicals is through their food. The main structure of infant food is milk, which is high in fat. There is a possibility of accumulation of environmental pollution, including benzo (a) pyrene (BaP). In this systematic review, the amount of BaP in infant milk was surveyed for this purpose. The chosen keywords were: benzo (a) pyrene, BaP, Infant formula, dried milk, powdered milk, and baby food. A total of 46 manuscripts were found in the scientific database. After initial screening and quality assessment, 12 articles were selected for extraction of data. By meta-analysis, the total estimate of BaP in baby food was calculated to be 0.078 ± 0.006 μg/kg. Estimation of daily intake (EDI) and Hazard Quotient (HQ) for noncarcinogenic risk and Margin of exposure (MOE) for carcinogenic risk were also calculated for three age groups 0–6 months, 6–12 months, and 1–3 years. HQ was lower than 1 and MOE was more than 10,000 for three age groups. Therefore, there is no potential carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic risk for infant health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Currently, the quality of school meals plays important role for the parents of schoolchildren. Expanding the range of food with hypoallergenic products is an urgent problem. In our research sorbet was used as a research object. Fruit and vegetable crops were used as the basis for the sorbet prototype. Zucchini, green apple and white currant were selected as the main ingredients of sorbets, taking into account the recommendations of a non-specific hypoallergenic diet. The goal of the research was to develop a recipe and conduct an organoleptic evaluation of a dessert based on zucchini, apples and currants. The task was to conduct an organoleptic evaluation of the prototype sorbet. The study of organoleptic indicators was carried out in accordance with GOST 31986-2012 «Catering services. Method of organoleptic assessment of the quality of public catering products». Test batches of the dessert were carried out at the Volgograd State Agrarian University at the Department of Processing and Food Production Technologies. In terms of organoleptic indicators, the new product met all technical requirements. The appearance of sorbet, a single-layer dessert in the form of a ball without glaze, decorated with mint greens. The consistency was dense. The taste was clean, characteristic of apple and currant, without any foreign tastes or odors. The color was light green, uniform throughout the mass. The product sample met the requirements of GOST R 55624-2013 «Whipped frozen fruit, vegetable and fruit-vegetable desserts. Technical conditions». A tasting evaluation of the sorbet was carried out. Employing the arithmetic mean value, the overall rating of the prototype was the highest. The use of zucchini, green apple and white currant in combination in the production of sorbet has not reduced the quality criteria of this dessert.

Despite growing concerns over the increasing popularity and health impact of commercial foods for infants and toddlers, no nutrition or promotional guidelines currently exist for the United States. In 2022, the WHO Regional Office for Europe published a nutrient and promotion profile model (NPPM) to provide guidance and regulation for commercially produced infant and toddler foods. This study assessed the nutritional and promotional profile of infant and toddler foods (6–36 months of age) collected from the top 10 grocery chains in 2023. Products were assessed against the WHO NPPM nutritional and promotional requirements. The type and number of claims across packaging type were also assessed. Of the 651 products examined, 60% failed to meet the nutritional requirements of the NPPM, and 0% met the promotional requirements. Almost 100% of products had at least 1 claim on-pack that was prohibited under the NPPM, with some products displaying up to 11 prohibited claims. Snack-size packages had the lowest compliance with nutrient requirements. These findings highlight that urgent work is needed to improve the nutritional quality of commercially produced infant and toddler foods in the United States. The high use of prohibited claims also suggests the need to regulate the type and number of claims allowed on-pack. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study determines uranium concentrations and isotopes (238U, 235U, and 234U) in baby food samples collected from Iraqi markets using solid-state nuclear track detector technical (CR-39). Also, some radiological hazard parameters such as annual committed effective dose (EU) and risk of an excess cancer fatality per million persons (RECFPMP) for the same study samples were calculated using theoretical equations. The samples in the present study were classified into three varieties: cereals and cereal products, vegetables and fruits, and biscuits. The results show that the average uranium concentration (mg/kg or ppm) values in cereals and cereal products, vegetables and fruits, and biscuits were 0.71 ± 0.01, 0.81 ± 0.04, and 0.72 ± 0.031, respectively. At the same time, the average values of 238U, 235U, and 234U in all samples of the present study were 9.08 ±0.17 Bq/kg, 0.42 ± 0.0081 Bq/kg, and 9.33 ± 0.18 Bq/kg, respectively. The total average of EU (mSv/y) due to all uranium isotopes (238U, 235U, and 234U) in cereals and cereal products, vegetables and fruits, and biscuits were 0.042 ± 0.0006, 0.039 ± 0.001, and 0.034 ± 0.001, respectively. Moreover, it was found that the average values of RECFPMP were 0.159 ± 0.002 in cereals and cereal products samples, 0.154 ± 0.007 in vegetables and fruits samples, and 0.130 ± 0.005 in biscuits samples. Uranium concentrations and the total annual committed effective dose in all baby food samples comply with the worldwide limits approved by UNSCEAR, which state safe limitations (1.7 mg/kg) and (0.32 mSv/y), respectively. So, one may conclude that there is no danger of uranium concentrations in the case of baby consumption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Infant formula is the only food product suitable for infants during the first months of life. Therefore, evaluating food contaminants is essential for ensuring infant food safety. We developed a miniaturized QuEChERS (µ-QuEChERS) method combined with Dispersive Liquid-Liquid Microextraction (DLLME) to detect acrylamide, glycidamide, and acetamide in IF simultaneously. Several parameters were optimized, including sample size, extraction solvent, clean-up sorbent type, and amount, among others, using an asymmetrical factorial design. The method also incorporated xanthydrol derivatization under light-protected, acidic conditions within the DLLME process, improving selectivity and enrichment.The µ-QuEChERS-DLLME method was validated according to FDA guidelines, demonstrating high selectivity, specificity, and excellent linearity (r² ≥ 0.9995). Recovery rates ranged from 91.0 % to 110.1 %, with precision (RSD ≤ 9.1 %). The method's sustainability was evaluated using the AGREEprep tool. It was applied to analyze acrylamide, glycidamide, and acetamide in 8 infant formula samples. Acetamide was quantifiable in one sample (230 ng/g), while acrylamide levels ranged from below the quantification limit to 50 ng/g, consistent with previous studies. This demonstrates the method's robustness for amide analysis in infant formula.

Despite the importance of breastfeeding, complementary or complete feeding with infant formula is performed worldwide. Metal contaminants, especially lead and cadmium, have many toxic and adverse effects, especially in children. Therefore, this work was conducted to investigate the levels of lead and cadmium in infant formula and baby foods. This study was performed on 18 samples of infant formula and 7 samples of baby food. Random sampling was performed among the best-selling and most consumed brands available in the Zahedan market, and elements were measured by atomic absorption spectroscopy using a graphite furnace. Moreover, Estimated Daily Intake (EDI) and health risk index (HRI) were calculated for the average of the total data. The mean concentrations of lead in infant formula and baby food samples were 14.7±0.98 and 13.77±1.51 µg/kg, respectively; lead was observed in all samples, although the difference between the amount of lead in samples no. 2 and no. 9 and its standard amount was significant (p<0.05). The average concentrations of cadmium in infant formula and baby food samples were 0.097±0.016 and 0.705±0.12 µg/kg, respectively; it was observed in 22% of infant formula samples and 57% of baby food samples, but the difference in cadmium concentrations in the samples was not significant compared to the standard concentration (p>0.05). The highest EDI for lead in infant formula for ages of 0 to six months was 0.22 µg/kg.day.bw. Also, the HRI for all samples was much less than one, which indicates that the baby's food and infant formula are healthy in terms of daily intake of cadmium and lead. Finally, it can be concluded that the amount of cadmium and lead in the infant formula and baby food samples, according to some indicators, is less than the standard level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives The purpose of this study was to examine mothers’ knowledge levels on complementary foods and their perception of convenience complementary foods. Methods An online survey was conducted with mothers aged 20–49 years who had purchased convenience complementary foods and had a preschool child aged 4 months or older. The respondents were categorized into 3 groups based on their knowledge scores: low- (0–50 points), mid- (55–65 points), and high- (70–100 points) knowledge groups. Results The average score of mothers’ knowledge on complementary foods was 58.8 out of 100 points. Working mothers were found to have lower levels of knowledge compared to mothers who were housewives. Only 1/4 of responding mothers had educational experience on complementary foods. Mothers expressed a desire for information on the types of complementary foods (72.2%) and the intake amounts (60.3%) corresponding to each phase of their child’s development. Multivariate analysis of variance revealed significant differences in health (P = 0.002), variety (P = 0.039), and hygiene (P = 0.041) among the factors taken into consideration when purchasing convenience complementary foods according to the mothers’ knowledge levels. Mothers in the high-knowledge group placed a greater importance on ‘balanced nutrition’ (P = 0.022) and ‘hygienic cooking’ (P = 0.010) compared to mothers in the low-knowledge group. The results of the modified importance-performance analysis, which compared the importance and performance of the factors taken into consideration when purchasing convenience complementary foods, highlighted the need for efforts in ‘health,’ ‘hygiene,’ and ‘price,’ while also indicating an excessive effort in ‘convenience.’ Conclusions This study suggests expanding relevant education programs to enhance mothers’ knowledge on complementary foods, especially for working mothers. In the industry, marketing strategies for complementary food products could be developed that align with the needs of mothers, focusing on health, hygiene, and price.

The aim of the present research was the development and validation of a selective and reliable method for the indirect and direct determination of acidic herbicide glucosides. Enzymatic deconjugation was investigated as a mild alternative to harsh alkaline hydrolysis. Various enzymatic options for deconjugation were exploited. One out of nine tested specific enzymes proved to be practical and repeatable for different matrices and concentration ranges, leading to the complete deconjugation of the glucosides. The method was validated according to the SANTE/11312/2021 guideline for cereals and oilseeds and for a rice-based infant formula. Additionally, for four acidic herbicide glucosides available on the market, a quantitative method for direct determination of the intact glucosides was optimized and validated. In both methods, the average recoveries were within 70–120%. The limits of quantification (LOQ) achieved were 10 µg kg−1 and 2.5 µg kg−1 for the intact glucosides and the free acids in cereal and oilseeds. For the rice-based infant formula, the LOQ was 1 µg kg−1 (3 µg kg−1 for dichlorprop). To confirm its applicability, the deconjugation approach was tested for fifteen samples (cereals, oilseeds, and citrus) with incurred residues. Comparisons were made between the method without deconjugation, and two methods with deconjugation, the here proposed enzymatic deconjugation and the more commonly used alkaline hydrolysis. The inclusion of enzymatic deconjugation during sample preparation led to an increase up to 2.7-fold compared to analysis without deconjugation. Enzymatic deconjugation resulted in comparable results to alkaline hydrolysis for 13 out of 15 samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article analyzes modern legal problems of the production of agricultural raw materials for baby food in Ukraine, taking into account the latest legislative changes in the field of baby food production, organic agricultural production, state control over the use of genetically modified organisms in the manufacture of food products. It has been established that the improvement of the legislation in the field of child nutrition should be carried out by making amendments and additions to the Law of Ukraine «On Child Nutrition» in order to bring its prescriptions into line with EU requirements, and not to cancel the specified special Law. Given the specifics of baby food and the importance of guaranteeing its quality and safety, replacing a separate special law with one article in the Law of Ukraine «On Basic Principles and Requirements for the Safety and Quality of Food Products» is hardly expedient. Taking into account the specific legal nature of a personal peasant economy, the author proves that persons who run such an economy can produce raw materials for baby food products, subject to compliance with legal requirements for the quality and safety of such raw materials. Based on the latest legislative changes in the field of legal provision of biosafety of Ukraine, the article proposes to legislate the possibility and necessity of using organic agricultural products as raw materials for baby food before creating an effective system of state control in the field of use and circulation of genetically modified organisms. In order to ensure the constitutional right of the child to sufficient, high-quality and safe nutrition, the author considers it expedient to conduct in-depth scientific research on these issues and make appropriate scientific conclusions and recommendations on improving the current legislation in this area, taking into account the requirements of EU legislation on the adaptation of the national agricultural, food, environmental and other legislation regarding the production of agricultural products for baby food. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examined and compared the nutritional quality and degree of naturalness between baby biscuits (<3 years), children biscuits (>3 years), and adult biscuits. Mintel's Global New Products Database was searched for "Baby Biscuits & Rusks" and "Sweet Biscuits/Cookies" (re)launched between July 2019 and July 2022 in four European countries (Germany, the Netherlands, Spain, and the United Kingdom), which resulted in 1280 products to be analyzed. Nutritional quality was measured by means of nutrient values per 100 g, and baby biscuits were assessed for compliance with the World Health Organization's latest Nutrient and Promotion Profile Model (NPPM). Degree of naturalness was measured using the food naturalness index (FNI). Baby biscuits had the best nutritional quality and were the most natural as compared to children and adult biscuits, but their energy density and sugar content require further attention. Nutritional quality was comparably poor in children and adult biscuits, and children biscuits were the least natural of the three groups. The NPPM requirements of not adding any free sugar at all to baby biscuits may drive parents to purchase alternative sweeter biscuits originally formulated and meant for children and adults. Reasonable regulations are needed to support product (re)formulations and to improve the current market food offer for babies and children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acrylamide (AA) is a contaminant resulting from the Maillard reaction and classified by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) as a probable carcinogen in Group 2A, with proven neurotoxic effects on humans. European Union (EU) Regulation No. 2017/2158 is currently in force, which establishes measures meant to reduce AA levels in food and sets reference values, but not legal limits, equal to 40 and 150 μg/kg AA in processed cereal-based foods intended for infants and young children and in biscuits and rusks, respectively. For this reason, sixty-two baby foods were analyzed using ultra-high performance liquid chromatography with diode array detector and quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UHPLC-DAD-Q-TOF/MS) to check whether industries were complying with these values, even though AA control is not legally mandatory. In total, 14.5% of the samples exceeded the reference values; these were homogenized chicken products (211.84 ± 16.53, 154.32 ± 12.71, 194.88 ± 7.40 μg/kg), three biscuits (276.36 ± 0.03, 242.06 ± 0.78, 234.78 ± 4.53 μg/kg), a wheat semolina (46.07 ± 0.23 μg/kg), a homogenized product with plaice and potatoes (45.52 ± 0.28 μg/kg), and a children’s snack with milk and cocoa (40.95 ± 0.32 μg/kg). Subsequently, the daily intake of AA was estimated, considering the worst-case scenario, as provided by the consumption of homogenized chicken products and biscuits. The results are associated with margins of exposure (MOEs) that are not concerning for neurotoxic effects but are alarming for the probable carcinogenic effects of AA.

Despite the increasing market share of commercial complementary foods, their nutritional characteristics and those associated with the price of products are still unknown in Japan. We compared the nutritional characteristics of commercially available complementary foods of different price levels in Japan. Data were obtained from the websites of Japanese brands of infant and young children's food. Nutrient profiles (unit/100 g), ingredients and food additives were compared between low- and high-priced products by product type. Sixty-three dry meals, 425 soft meals, 187 snacks and sweets, and 60 drinks were analysed. One-fifth of meals and snacks exceeded the CODEX-defined limit (200 mg Na/100 g). Most products lacked content information on nutrients non-mandated to be indicated. High-priced soft meals contained more protein (2·5 v. 1·9 g/100 g) and less Na (0·18 v. 0·46 g/100 g), less frequently used ≥ 1 added sugar (23 % v. 82 %), and less frequently used food additives than low-priced products; however, they had a lower variety of ingredients. The prevalence of products containing ≥ 1 added sugar was higher in low-priced snacks and sweets (91 % v. 77 %) but lower in drinks (48 % v. 84 %) than in their high-priced counterparts. High Na content is a concern among commercial complementary foods in Japan. Nonetheless, the relationship between the price and nutritional profile of these foods differs by product type. High-priced soft meals might be more favourable regarding nutrient content but not the variety of ingredients than low-priced counterparts. These findings elucidate the nutritional characteristics of commercial complementary foods in Japan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Parents are exposed to breastmilk substitutes and baby foods marketing on the internet and social media, which hinders adequate breastfeeding and complementary feeding. This study identifies digital marketing strategies for breastmilk substitutes, specifically commercial milk formula and baby foods used by the industry to influence infant and young children’s feeding practices in Mexico and proposes regulatory recommendations that can be useful for similar countries. Methods Qualitative study based on the CLICK monitoring framework developed by the World Health Organization, adapted for digital marketing of commercial milk formula and baby foods. Semi-structured interviews (n = 53) with key actors were conducted between November 2020 and March 2021, and used grounded theory for the analysis and interpretation with the MAXQDA 20 software. Results Commercial milk formula and baby food companies use digital media to contact and persuade parents to use their products by sending electronic newsletters with advertising. Companies hire influencers to market their products because there is no regulation prohibiting the advertisement of breastmilk substitutes on social media, and promote formula among health professionals inviting them to participate in sponsored webinars on infant nutrition, ignoring conflict of interest and the International Code of Marketing of Breastmilk Substitutes. Parents trust formula and baby food advertisements, which use emotional messages and health and nutrition claims to encourage their consumption. Health professionals consider that claims contribute to the indiscriminate use of formula, and some actors propose the use of plain packaging for these products. Conclusions Breastmilk substitutes companies promote their products in digital media using unethical strategies that fail to comply with the International Code of Marketing of Breastmilk Substitutes. They generate strong conflicts of interest with health professionals, taking advantage of legal framework gaps and the lack of monitoring and effective sanctions for non-compliers. Updating the legal framework and monitoring compliance, including digital media, is urgently needed to protect children’s right to breastfeeding, healthy nutrition and life, and the rights of women to health and informed decision-making.

A method based on liquid chromatography-triple quadrupole tandem mass spectrometry was developed and validated for the analysis of acrylamide in baby foods. The sample preparation involves a simple extraction process using a mixture of acetonitrile:water:formic acid (69:30:1, v/v/v) in combination with dispersive solid-phase extraction (d-SPE) using alumina as sorbent. The method shown good linearity within the range 20–250 μg kg−1 through matrix-matched and solvent calibrations. The recovery rates for acrylamide ranged from 100 to 108% with coefficients of variation below 10%, under repeatability and reproducibility conditions (within-laboratory). The obtained limit of quantification (20 μg kg−1) complies with the values indicated by the European Union for acrylamide analysis in baby foods. The developed and validated method was applied to 50 ready-to-eat baby foods available in the Brazilian market. Acrylamide was detected in 13% of samples primarily composed of fruits, whereas it was found in approximately 37% of baby food containing meat and/or vegetables. Additionally, in 2 samples, the detected levels exceeded the benchmark value established by the EU (40 μg kg−1). The study showcases the applicability of this method for routine analysis of acrylamide detection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration released proposed lead (Pb) action levels for foods intended for babies and young children in January 2023 based on the agency's interim reference value of 2.2 µg/day for dietary Pb. Since the 1980s, biokinetic models have estimated blood lead levels (BLLs) associated with environmental contamination, but their use in food safety assessment has been limited. We compared three recent biokinetic models (IEUBK Model, ICRP Model Version 5, and AALM) to develop insights on contributors to variability in potential exposures to Pb in consumer baby food products. While modest variation was observed for babies, the predictions trended to convergence for children aged 3 and older, approaching the U.S. FDA dietary conversion factor of 0.16 µg Pb/dL blood per µg Pb intake/day. We applied the IEUBK model in a probabilistic exposure assessment framework characterizing the distribution of Pb in soil, dust, water, and food intake in the United States. Soil and dust were the primary contributors to variance in infant BLLs, while food and water contributed <15% combined. Thus, reductions in upper-bound soil and dust concentrations will be necessary before achieving appreciable reductions in the frequency of BLLs greater than the BLRV of 3.5 µg/dL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The infant population is particularly sensitive, so the risk posed by their diet must be analyzed. The aims of the present study were (i) to determine the contents of 38 elements in 159 samples of ready-to-eat baby food sold in Spain and (ii) to estimate the dietary intakes and risk assessments of these elements in name brands and store brands in infants ranging between 6 and 12 months of age. Methods: A list of essential, non-essential/toxic elements, rare earth elements (REEs), and other hi-tech-related elements that are currently considered as emerging environmental pollutants were measured in ready-to-eat baby foods by ICP-MS. Results: Fish purees showed the highest concentrations of mercury (28.1 ng/g) and arsenic (346.2 ng/g). The levels of manganese, molybdenum, and chromium exceed the adequate intake, being higher in the case of store brands. The acute hazard index was above 1 for molybdenum and manganese. A risky consumption of thallium and mercury was observed, being higher among name brands. The risk associated with the consumption of REEs was low, although its presence should be highlighted. Conclusions: This is the first time that these chemical elements have been measured in ready-to-eat purees for babies. The presence of some of them, such as mercury, should be sufficient to monitor the levels of these contaminants in food intended for such a sensitive population as children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Africa has a rich diversity of indigenous crops whose commercial and economic value have been underutilized. Eragrostis tef is a crop with great potential for production and commercialization in Ethiopia. The nutritional and curative values of tef are recognized not only in Ethiopia but also in the global market. Economically, tef and its value chain are a source of livelihood for more than six million small-scale Ethiopian farmers. Its large-scale commercialization has the potential to transform the livelihoods of many impoverished people. However, little research has been conducted to assess Ethiopian consumers' attitudes toward tef products. The objective of this study is to understand product attributes that would affect consumer purchasing decisions. The study is based on pasta and baby food, the two most important products that could be made out of tef. The attributes analyzed are the inclusion of tef in the products, price, organic certification, and brand origin. The study relies on survey data that were randomly collected from 318 respondents and secondary data from the central statistical agency. The attributes were subjected to conjoint analysis, a method that is commonly used in consumer market research with hypothetical products consisting of multiple attributes to understand customers' preference for different components of the product. The results of the analysis show that the inclusion of tef flour in the products is the most important factor consumers would consider when buying pasta or baby food. Further, consumers are interested in brand origin as they have a strong inclination to buy domestic brands and prefer products with organic certification. In the case of baby food, Ethiopians are likely to buy products containing more tef flour, packaged in sealed can rather than a paper bag, and concentrated in iron or protein. However, they are less willing to pay a premium even for products they perceive to be of greater utility. The preference for domestic brands and processed food with tef implies that there is opportunity for local brands to grow if they can understand and satisfy consumer expectations. It also means that consumers are interested in business practices that promote sustainable livelihoods. Overall, these findings suggest the potential for commercialization of tef products in Ethiopia and that the development of its value chain could combat nutritional deficiencies in the country. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the context of the global childhood obesity, it is essential to monitor the nutrition value of commercial foods. A cross-sectional study (November 2018 to April 2019) aimed to evaluate the nutritional adequacy of processed/ultra-processed food products targeted at 0–36-month-old children in Portugal and in Brazil. The nutrient profiling model developed by the Pan American Health Organization was used. A total of food 171 products were assessed (123 in Portugal and forty eight in Brazil). From the fifteen available meat- or fish-based meals in Brazil, 60 % exceeded the amount of Na and 100 % exceeded the target for total fat. Given the lack of specification of sugars within carbohydrates in the label of the foods in Brazil, it was not possible to calculate free sugars. In Portugal, from the seventeen fruit and vegetable purees and the six juice/smoothie/tea/drinks available, 82 % and 67 %, respectively, surpassed the level of free sugar, while total and saturated fat was excessive in all yogurt and yogurt-related products (n 21), 40 % of biscuit/wafer/crisps (two out of five) and 13 % meat- or fish-based meals (two out of sixteen). These findings demonstrate the relevance of improving the nutritional profile of some food products targeted to young children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Food additives have been used mainly in the past century to perform specific functions in foods. Some types of food additives have been linked to adverse health outcomes, yet there is little research examining food additives in the US food supply. To examine the proportion of products purchased by US households containing four common technical food additives using time-specific food composition data and examine whether purchases have changed over time. Nielsen Homescan Consumer Panels, 2001 and 2019. The proportion of packaged food products containing common types of food additives purchased by US households was determined overall and by food category. Differences were examined using Student t test; P value < 0.001 was considered significant. Between 2001 and 2019, the proportion of food products purchased by US households that contained additives increased from 49.6% to 59.5% (P < 0.001). The proportion of carbonated soft drinks purchased containing flavors decreased, with a subsequent increase in purchases containing nonnutritive sweeteners. Baby foods showed a 20% increase in the proportion of purchases containing additives and >15% increase in the proportion of purchases containing three or more additives. There is convincing evidence that US household purchases of common types of technical food additives are increasing. Despite some positive changes such as a decrease in the use of added flavors in carbonated soft drinks, across most food categories an increase in purchases of all types of products containing additives was observed. In particular the finding that purchases of baby food products containing additives have increased substantially is crucial in informing future research in this area and warrants further investigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A non-targeted convenience survey was conducted in 2021 to estimate the range of total arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), total mercury (Hg) and lead (Pb) concentrations in ready-to-eat baby foods. Four hundred samples were purchased both online and in brick-and-mortar retail. Samples included both organic and non-organic products, packaged in glass or plastic jars and foil or plastic pouches. Samples were analysed by acid assisted microwave digestion and ICP-MS with an emphasis on ultra-low detection limits. Limits of quantification were 2.26, 1.31, 0.72, and 3.14 µg/kg (ppb) for As, Cd, Hg and Pb, respectively. The median concentrations of As, Cd, Hg, and Pb in tested products were 2.60, 1.81, 0.09, and 1.38 µg/kg, respectively. Foods containing rice were more likely to contain arsenic. Foods with leafy greens, such as spinach and kale, were more likely to contain cadmium and foods with root vegetables had the highest concentrations of lead. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The issue of rational nutrition of children is still extremely relevant and an effective factor ensuring the preservation of life and health of children. Pathological conditions associated with intolerance to certain components of food are increasingly common. Biologically complete products play an important role in the organization of rational nutrition of children, which can be created only in industrial production conditions. When assessing the chemical composition of experimental samples of goat meat (Zaanenskaya, Alpine, Nubian), no abnormal deviations were detected, and all indicators were in the generally accepted contents of this type of animal muscle tissue. The mineral composition showed that goat meat is rich in such elements as potassium - 1693.22-4125.83mg/kg; sodium - 852.27-1518 mg/kg, magnesium - 125.33-295.8 mg/kg; calcium - 79.27-160.79 mg/kg, iron 11.42-87.52 mg/kg. The vitamin composition of goat meat showed that the content of pantothenic acid (B5) was 0.53-0.62 mg/100g, pyridoxine (B6) 0.52-0.64 mg/100g tocopherol 0.27-0.33 mg/100g. The indicators of the mass fraction of goat meat proteins were 2.1 ± 0.3- 2.4 ± 0.4 %. The study of the dynamics of changes in the composition of protein fractions based on the results of comparative studies of the ratio of sarcoplasmic proteins showed the content of water-soluble (1.75-4.06 %), salt-soluble (1.75-2.44 %), alkali-soluble (11.15-15.10 %) proteins. The salt-soluble fraction reflects the total changes in the state of protein fractions, the solubility of which was not the same for the rocks under consideration (the highest concentration was determined in the Nubian rock).

Human milk is the healthiest option for newborns, although, under specific circumstances, infant formula is a precious alternative for feeding the baby. Except for the nutritional content, infant formulas and baby food must be pollutant-free. Thus, their composition is controlled by continuous monitoring and regulated by establishing upper limits and guideline values for safe exposure. Legislation differs worldwide, although there are standard policies and strategies for protecting vulnerable infants. This work presents current regulations and directives for restricting endocrine-disrupting chemicals and persistent organic pollutants in infant formulas. Risk assessment studies, which are limited, are necessary to depict exposure variations and assess the health risks for infants from dietary exposure to pollutants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The need to develop products for infant nutrition is urgent. Cow’s milk is the basis for making porridge. The number of children suffering from allergies to cow’s milk protein is 2-7.5%. The aim of the work is to study the kinetics of extrudate swelling in different types of milk, their influence on the rheological properties of porridges and their ability to digest. The degree of swelling of the extrudate in mares’ milk is 12.5% higher than in cow’s milk, and in goat’s and sheep’s milk - 4% and 19% lower, respectively. The viscosity of mares’ milk porridge is 50% lower than the viscosity of «Malyshka» porridge. The viscosity of goat’s milk porridge is also 40% lower than the viscosity of «Malyshka» porridge. The lowest digestibility of proteins is observed in «Malyshka» porridge, in which 31% less amino acids accumulate in 3 hours of hydrolysis compared to goat milk porridge. In porridge based on mare and sheep milk, 51% and 78% more amino acids are released compared to the control. It is proved that the development of new milk-flour porridges for feeding children aged 6 months to 1 year is relevant. It is established that the degree of swelling of corn extrudate depends on the chemical composition of milk. It has been found that goat’s and sheep’s’ milk porridge retains a high viscosity, which is also explained by the chemical composition of milk, namely the high content of fat and protein. Studies of the digestion process indicate that the developed cereals are digested with a similar intensity, which is higher than the digestion of porridge «Malyshka».