FDA limits lead in baby food

Abstract

The US Food and Drug Administration is recommending limits for lead in processed baby food . The action comes nearly 2 years after a congressional report revealed that many foods consumed by babies and young children contain harmful levels of toxic heavy metals. The proposed guidelines would limit lead to 10 ppb for most baby foods packaged in jars, pouches, tubs, and boxes. But root vegetables and dry cereals would be limited to 20 ppb of lead. “For babies and young children who eat the foods covered in today’s draft guidance, the FDA estimates that these action levels could result in as much as a 24–27% reduction in exposure to lead from these foods,” FDA commissioner Robert Califf says in a press release . In April 2022, the FDA recommended limits of 10 ppb for lead in apple juice and 20 ppb for lead in other juices. The actions are