Lead concentrations in a total of 82 different types of infant formulae (cow’s milk and soy
based) marked in Spain were analysed by acid-microwave decomposition and anodic
stripping voltammetry. Dietary lead intake from infant formula and tap water used for
powder formula reconstitution were estimated in comparison with the provisional tolerable
weekly intake (PTWI). Additionally, the influence of physical state (powder and ready to
use formulae), the type of container used and the impact of industrial process from
different manufacturers on lead levels were evaluated. According to our results, lead
exposure from drinking water was negligible with respect to formulae investigated; where
soya formulae contributed the highest intake (58 – 73 % PTWI), non adapted starter and
specialised formulae gave an moderate intake (31 – 42 and 26 – 37 % PTWI, respectively)
and, finally, pre-term, adapted starter and follow up formulae provided the lowest lead
intake (22 – 25, 22 – 26 and 16 – 22 % PTWI, respectively). Based on the current state of
knowledge about lead toxicity, manufacturers are called to make an additional effort in
order to keep a maximum lead level at 20 g l-1 for all infant formulae, although it is
recommendable that these formulations supply the upper limit (5 g l-1) of “normal”
human milk