Baby Food Research Articles

Assessment of foods for infants and toddlers in Australia against the World Health Organization's Nutrient and Promotion Profile Model for food products for infants and young children.

Global public health agencies have recommended stronger regulation of food marketing to protect children's diets. This study assessed commercial foods for infants and toddlers available in Australian supermarkets for compliance with the World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Office for Europe's Nutrient and Promotion Profile Model: supporting appropriate promotion of food products for infants and young children 6-36 months in the WHO European Region (NPPM). Dietitians assessed a sample of commercial foods for infants and toddlers against the composition, labelling and promotion requirements of the NPPM. Australia. Commercial foods for infants and toddlers (n 45) available in two major Australian supermarkets, purposely sampled across product categories and brands. Fewer than one quarter (23 %) of the assessed products met all nutrient content requirements of the NPPM. No products met all of the labelling or promotional requirements. All products included at least one promotional marketing claim that was not permitted under the NPPM. The NPPM is useful to assess and monitor the nutritional composition and prevalence of marketing claims on commercial foods for infants and toddlers. Findings of noncompliance with the NPPM recommendations indicate an urgent need for stronger government regulation of the composition, labelling and marketing of commercial foods for infants and toddlers in Australia.

Preliminary risk assessment of exposure to 3-monochloropropanediol and glycidyl fatty acid esters from infant formula and baby food products on the Saudi market

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.

Re-evaluation of silicon dioxide (E 551) as a food additive in foods for infants below 16 weeks of age and follow-up of its re-evaluation as a food additive for uses in foods for all population groups.

The present opinion is the follow-up of the conclusions and recommendations of the Scientific Opinion on the re-evaluation of silicon dioxide (E 551) as a food additive relevant to the safety assessment for all age groups. In addition, the risk assessment of silicon dioxide (E 551) for its use in food for infants below 16 weeks of age is performed. Based on the newly available information on the characterisation of the SAS used as E 551 and following the principles of the 2021 EFSA Guidance on Particle-TR, the conventional safety assessment has been complemented with nano-specific considerations. Given the uncertainties resulting from the limitations of the database and in the absence of genotoxicity concern, the Panel considered that it is not appropriate to derive an acceptable daily intake (ADI) but applied the margin of exposure (MOE) approach for the risk assessment. The Panel concluded that the MOE should be at least 36 for not raising a safety concern. The calculated MOEs considering the dietary exposure estimates for all population groups using the refined non-brand loyal scenario, estimated at the time of the 2018 re-evaluation, were all above 36. The Panel concluded that E 551 does not raise a safety concern in all population groups at the reported uses and use levels. The use of E 551 in food for infants below 16 weeks of age in FC 13.1.1 and FC 13.1.5.1 does not raise a safety concern at the current exposure levels. The Panel also concluded that the technical data provided support an amendment of the specifications for E 551 laid down in Commission Regulation (EU) No 231/2012. The paucity of toxicological studies with proper dispersion protocol (with the exception of the genotoxicity studies) creates uncertainty in the present assessment of the potential toxicological effects related to the exposure to E 551 nanosize aggregates.

Nitrate and nitrite quantification in U.S. vegetable-based baby foods and infant formula via ozone chemiluminescence

Determining nitrate (NO3-) and nitrite (NO2-) concentrations (“NN”) in infant diets is crucial due to their potential health implications and immature digestive systems. This study provides a comprehensive analysis of these ions in commercially available vegetable- and fruit-based baby foods and infant formulas in the United States. We evaluated 151 baby foods and 12 infant formulas to determine the NN quantity in these food items and to assess current exposure levels utilizing ozone chemiluminescence for sensitive detection. Our findings reveal notable variations in NN concentrations across different brands and types, with some exceeding recommended safety limits. The results underscore the necessity for regular assessment and monitoring of NN in these foods to inform development of regulatory standards to safeguard infant health. This research contributes to the discourse on dietary safety and highlights the importance of employing advanced methodologies for public health assurance and well-being of vulnerable populations.

Occurrence of mycotoxins of the beauvericin and enniatin groups in infant foods and risk assessment study

The aim of this study was the determination of mycotoxins belonging to beauvericin and enniatin groups in infant foods to be considered for the assessment of dietary exposure. The extraction phase with acetonitrile was followed by a purification step before liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis. The method was suitable to detect these mycotoxins in different categories of infant foods (cereal-based creams, biscuits, and pasta) at concentrations between 0.30 μg/kg for beauvericin and enniatin A and 0.60 μg/kg for the remaining enniatins (A1, B and B1) up to a maximum of 20 μg/kg. Beauvericin was the most detected mycotoxin in pasta samples (15%) at a maximum concentration of 1.1 μg/kg, while enniatin B showed the highest presence (90%) in biscuits, at levels ranging from 0.63 to 11 μg/kg. Enniatin B1 was found in all matrices at comparable ranks of positivity, with the highest occurrence rate (30%) in biscuits. The highest estimated daily intake was observed in infant consumers aged 1–3 years and was associated with the consumption of biscuits, followed by samples of pasta and cereal-based creams. It was higher in infants than in children aged 4–9 years due to consumption data expressed per kg of body weight. The lowest estimated daily intake was obtained for beauvericin in all matrices as its concentrations were lower than those of the enniatin group. The results of this study highlighted the need to implement monitoring also for these mycotoxin groups, paying particular attention to infants as a high-risk category.

Plain Language Summary of the re-evaluation of silicon dioxide (E 551) as a food additive in foods for infants below 16 weeks of age and follow-up of its re-evaluation as a food additive for uses in foods for all population groups.

Plain Language Summary of the re-evaluation of silicon dioxide (E 551) as a food additive in foods for infants below 16 weeks of age and follow-up of its re-evaluation as a food additive for uses in foods for all population groups.

Infant and Toddler Health Risks Associated with Pesticide Residue Exposure Through Fruit- and Vegetable-Based Baby Food

This research specifically delves into the potential health risks associated with pesticide residues in fruit- and vegetable-based foods for Turkish infants and toddlers.A total of 36 baby food samples were analyzed using a validated method covering 355 pesticide residues, employing liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LCMS/ MS) and gas chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (GC-MS/MS). Notably, 72.2% of the samples revealed no pesticide residues, while 10 samples exceeded the Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs) stipulated by the EU Directives. Specifically,pyriproxyfen had the greatest average concentration in pear fruits (0.573mg/kg). Notably, both pyrimethanil and pyriproxyfen were the most frequently detected analytes in all positive samples. The study further simulated a population, considering age-specific energy requirements for infants and toddlers. Pyriproxyfen demonstrated the highest average exposure (1.58±2.20μg/kg bw/day) across all age groups. Notably, for 6-month-old infants, the toxicological contribution as a percentage of the ADI for pesticides remained below 14.73%. It emphasizes the necessity for regulatory measures to ensure the safety of foods intended for infants and toddlers in the Turkish market. These findings support ongoing efforts to uphold pesticide levels within acceptable safety limits.

Regulatory compliance of taurine containing food products marketed in India using a validated method: A pilot study

Taurine is an important functional food ingredient found in infant food, nutritional supplements and energy drinks. Concerns about the safety and quality of these products have prompted enhanced regulatory interest and enforcement. This study aimed to investigate regulatory compliance of taurine, in selected food products available in the Indian market. To assess compliance, a liquid chromatography method based on post-column derivatization with ninhydrin for the determination of taurine was validated for selectivity, accuracy, precision, linearity range, limit of detection, recovery and analysis of certified reference material. Excellent sensitivity, reproducibility and selectivity were achieved. The limit of detection and limit of quantification for the method was 0.0014 mg/100 mL and 0.0044 mg/100 mL, respectively. The overall percentage recoveries ranged from 95 % to 98 %. A total of 26 different products were analysed for their taurine content and compared with the label claim. Box-plots revealed wide variation in the taurine content. The determined concentrations of taurine ranged from 21.69 to 36.80 mg/100 g for infant foods with 7 out of the 9 samples analysed in the permitted tolerance limit of 20 % of the stated claim. Taurine content varied from 195.7 to 445.8 mg/100 mL for energy drinks with the percentage difference between obtained and declared values ranging from 4.15 to 11.46. All the 9 dietary supplements analyzed were found to contain taurine (20.48–68.62 mg/100 g), even though it was not listed as an ingredient. Our results confirm the efficacy of the proposed method in ensuring compliance with taurine in food products, underlining its importance for risk assessors and regulators.

Prospects for the development of new specialized food products based on the milk of various farm animals

The article presents the results related to the prospects for the use of goat, mare and camel milk in the production of baby food and therapeutic and prophylactic nutrition. The direction of designing new specialized food products is promising for the food and processing industry, since scientific developments associated with new technologies and recipes will significantly expand the range of baby and dietary food products and improve the quality of life and health of the population in Kazakhstan.

Understanding infant and young child feeding (IYCF) practices among Muslim mothers/caregivers: A qualitative study in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, Philippines

BackgroundThe study focused on understanding infant and young child feeding practices (IYCF) among Muslim mothers in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), Philippines.ObjectiveRecognizing the cultural and religious sensitivities associated with these practices, the research aimed to identify influencing factors and assess the influence of advertisements on maternal decisions regarding infants' and children's diets.MethodsA total of 74 Muslim mothers with infants 6-23 months old were recruited and participated in the focus group discussions (FGD). Ten FGD sessions were conducted in Maguindanao Province, Philippines from July to August 2021. Verbatim transcriptions of audio-recorded discussions were transcribed into Microsoft Word files and QSR NVivo version 12 was used in the coding and analysis of the transcripts.ResultsMothers exhibited limited awareness of such important complementary feeding issues as preferring fruits and vegetables while avoiding junk food as chips. IYCF information came primarily from health workers and other mothers - their own mothers, mothers-in-law, and midwives. Television commercials were identified as particularly influential in shaping maternal feeding decisions.ConclusionsThere was a diversity of breastfeeding practices and limited knowledge, especially of complementary feeding among these Muslim mothers. Both traditional beliefs and marketing were said to influence feeding choices. This underscores the need for culturally-sensitive interventions and targeted educational initiatives to enhance maternal knowledge and advocate for optimal infant feeding practices within Muslim communities, as well as regulation of the marketing of commercial infant foods.

ANALISIS PENGADAAN MAKANAN BERGIZI DALAM PENANGANAN STUNTING DI DESA SIMANAERE KECAMATAN GUNUNGSITOLI IDANOI

Stunting is a condition of growth failure in children (body and brain growth) due to malnutrition for a long time. So the child is shorter than normal children his age and has delays in thinking. There are still babies and toddlers in Simanere Village who experience quite high levels of stunting. The causes of stunting are due to the economic problems of families who are classified as underprivileged, the lack of provision of healthy food and the lack of implementation of healthy living by families. The Simanaere Village Government is making efforts to prevent stunting by providing nutritious food for babies and toddlers, but it is still not running optimally because the implementation does not run regularly and continuously every month. The aim of this research is to find out the extent of providing nutritious food in handling stunting in Simanaere Village. The method used is a qualitative approach. The research results show that the main problem occurs due to the budget disbursement process not running smoothly to finance the procurement of nutritious food, so the conclusion from this research is that there is a delay in the distribution of nutritious food for babies and toddlers in Simanere Village due to the budget disbursement process from the relevant agencies which takes months. . So it is recommended that Simanaere Village coordinate with the Gunungsitoli City Health Service and related agencies in providing nutritious food assistance for babies and toddlers.

Mothers’ needs and wishes for breastfeeding support in workplaces in Thailand: a qualitative study

BackgroundReturning to work is a barrier to breastfeeding. Although the Department of Labour Protection and Welfare (DLPW) in Thailand encourages employers to initiate a breastfeeding corner – a designated area where mothers can express their breastmilk privately and comfortably – in their workplace to support lactating employees, little is known about what kind of support mothers would like to continue breastfeeding after returning to work. This research aimed to explore mothers’ needs and wishes for breastfeeding support in the workplace.MethodsThis qualitative study used focus group discussions to collect data from female employees who had a child aged 6 − 24 months in factories that had initiated a breastfeeding corner between 1 October 2021 and 30 September 2022. The focus group discussions were held between June and July 2023. We employed semi-structured questions relating to breastfeeding support in their workplaces (e.g., a breastfeeding corner, lactation break, providing information or knowledge), baby food marketing in workplaces, and recommendations to improve breastfeeding support for working mothers. We applied thematic analysis to analyse the data.ResultsNineteen mothers from five factories located in Bangkok and surrounding provinces participated in the study. All participating factories had a breastfeeding corner in a first aid room, and no lactation breaks were given. Therefore, lactating employees spent time during their breaks pumping breastmilk. Furthermore, the lactating employees did not acquire any information or education about breastfeeding from the workplace during pregnancy or after delivery but rather obtained this from health system services and digital platforms. They also received support from family, health professionals, and colleagues when they returned to work after giving birth. Lactating employees would like employers to provide specific lactation breaks. They also wanted credible information or knowledge about breastfeeding to be provided during pregnancy and after giving birth, together with other social support.ConclusionsThe Department of Labour Protection and Welfare, the Department of Health, and the Thai Breastfeeding Centre Foundation could collaborate with other relevant organisations to support employers in establishing breastfeeding support in their workplace.

Research progress in the synthesis of 3'- and 6'-sialactose by Escherichia coli

Human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs) are a structurally complex group of unbound polysaccharides, representing the third-largest solid component in breast milk. They play a crucial role in the intestinal health and immune system development of infants. Sialylated HMOs, including 3'-sialactose (3'-SL) and 6'-sialactose (6'-SL), are major components of HMOs, playing significant roles in immune regulation, anti-inflammatory processes, and promotion of probiotic growth. Currently, the cost-effective production of high-value sialactose by microbial fermentation with readily available raw materials has become a research hotspot due to the high nutritional value and potential applications of sialylated HMOs in infant food. This paper summarizes the functions and biosynthesis of 3'-SL and 6'-SL. Furthermore, it reviews the research progress in the synthesis of sialactose by Escherichia coli, offering valuable insights for future industrial production.

Traditional weaning foods and processing methods with fortification for sustainable development of infants to combat zero hunger: a review.

Weaning foods are soft digestible baby foods introduced along with breast milk for infants of 6 to 24 months. Early nutrition is a crucial one for proper growth and wellbeing. Researchers have developed weaning food from locally available ingredients with appropriate processing methods without losing actual nutrients value. Despite this, micronutrient malnutrition irrespective of the country status is a potential threat. This is overcome by fortifying micronutrients in the formulated weaning foods. Typically, formulated weaning foods are prepared from fruits and cereal grains that are abundant in micronutrients. Different processing methods are adopted to maintain the original natural characteristics of the ingredients. Traditional homemade weaning foods always have an upper hand over industrialized ones. Additionally, fortification enhances the micronutrients in weaning food and helps in uprooting the hidden hunger thereby helping in the sustainable development goals. This review focuses and delivers insights on the various processing methods and cereal-fruit weaning foods as traditional homemade ready-to-serve food supplement. It also highlights the impact of fortification of weaning foods against micronutrient malnutrition. On the whole this work emphasizes on the importance of sustainable weaning foods and how babies can be brought up into healthy grown-ups achieving zero hunger.

Sprouting days: Its influence on quality characteristics of millet and sorghum flour

Sorghum and millet are among the most important cereal crops consumed worldwide, with production concentrated in many developing countries in Africa and Asia. Malting is a traditional cheap method adopted to improve sorghum and millet utilization in agribusiness and various households. This study determined the impact of sprouting duration on the quality characteristics of flours from sorghum and millet. The proximate, physicochemical and functional properties were observed in raw (0 day) and malted flours (2, 4, and 6 days). From the results, physicochemical properties generally increased (pH (4.79–6.17), TSS (1.40–5.16 oBrix), and TA (1.02–1.99 %)) with sprouting period for both millet and sorghum flours. Also, whilst proximate parameters such as ash (1.05–2.55 %), fat (1.69–10.55 %), and energy content (377.58–412.18 kcal) of malted millet and sorghum followed an increasing trend, fiber (1.98–1.68 %) and carbohydrate (89.10–78.67 %) decreased with increasing sprouting days. Again, with the exception of water holding capacity (1.75–2.33 %) which increased with the increase in sprouting days, all other functional properties (bulk density (0.59–0.54 g/ml), loose density (0.56–0.45 g/ml), oil holding capacity (2.50–1.45 %), and swelling index (1.07–1.02 %) declined in the malted millet flour. In the case of malted sorghum, bulk (0.64–0.59 g/ml) and loose (0.57–0.50 g/ml) densities observed a general decline while all other functional properties (water holding capacity, oil holding capacity, and swelling index of sorghum flour) revealed no obvious trend with sprouting days. This study revealed that sprouting duration has a significant impact on the quality parameters of both sorghum and millet flours. It is therefore important to explore such sprouted grain flours for possible incorporation in breakfast cereals, infant foods, and bakery products.

Frequent Use of Baby Food Pouches in Infants and Young Children and Associations with Energy Intake and BMI: An Observational Study.

Most wet commercial infant foods are now sold in squeezable 'pouches'. While multiple expert groups have expressed concern about their use, it is not known how commonly they are consumed and whether they impact energy intake or body mass index (BMI). The objectives were to describe pouch use, and determine associations with energy intake and BMI, in infants and young children. In this observational cross-sectional study of 933 young New Zealand children (6.0 months-3.9 years), pouch use was assessed by a questionnaire ('frequent' use was consuming food from a baby food pouch ≥5 times/week in the past month), usual energy intake using two 24-h recalls, and BMI z-score calculated using World Health Organization standards. The sample broadly represented the wider population (27.1% high socioeconomic deprivation, 22.5% Māori). Frequent pouch use declined with age (infants 27%, toddlers 16%, preschoolers 8%). Few children were both frequent pouch users and regularly used the nozzle (infants 5%, toddlers 13%, preschoolers 8%). Preschoolers who were frequent pouch users consumed significantly less energy than non-users (-580 kJ [-1094, -67]), but infants (115 [-35, 265]) and toddlers (-206 [-789, 378]) did not appear to have a different energy intake than non-users. There were no statistically significant differences in the BMI z-score by pouch use. These results do not support the strong concerns expressed about their use, particularly given the lack of evidence for higher energy intake or BMI.

Baby Foods (Solid Foods)

Author: Barton Schmitt MD, FAAPDisclaimer: This health information is for educational purposes only. You the reader assume full responsibility for how you choose to use it. The information contained in this handout should not be used as a substitute for the medical care and advice of your pediatrician. Listing of any resources does not imply an endorsement.

Penerapan Pijat Oksitosin Terhadap Produksi ASI di Ruang Cempaka RSUD Dr.Soehadi Pridjonegoro Sragen

Background: Breast Milk (ASI) is a fatty emulsion in lactose protein and inorganic salts secreted by the mother's mammary gland, useful as food for infants. Breast milk is difficult to achieve because one of them is breast milk that does not come out or does not run smoothly. One of the non-pharmacological arrangements to help smooth the release of breast milk can be done by oxytocin massage. Objective: Knowing the results of the implementation of oxytocin massage to breast milk production at the Cempaka Ward of dr. Soehadi Pridjonegoro Sragen Hospital. Method: This study is a descriptive study in the form of a case study conducted on 2 postpartum mother respondents by massage oxytocin for 2 consecutive days with a frequency of 2x a day for 10-15 minutes. Result: The study of oxytocin massage in both postpartum mothers on the first day has not changed breast milk production. Then on the second day of breast milk production, the two respondents showed an increase, evidenced by the increase in breast milk, empty breasts after catching up, and the breasts looked full before breastfeeding. Conclusion: There is an increase in breast milk production before and after giving oxytocin massage to postpartum mothers in the Cempaka Room of dr. Soehadi Prjonegoro Sragen Hospital.

Development of a Nutrient Profiling Model for Processed Foods in Japan.

Numerous nutrient profiling models (NPMs) exist worldwide, but Japan lacks an official NPM. Using the Australian and New Zealand Health Star Rating (HSR) as a reference, "Processed Foods in Japan version 1.0" (NPM-PFJ (1.0)) was developed to fit Japanese food culture and policies. In total, 668 processed foods from the Standard Tables of Food Composition in Japan were analyzed, excluding seasonings/spices, fats/oils, alcoholic beverages, and infant food. The NPM-PFJ (1.0) scoring algorithm was adapted from HSR, with revised reference values for energy, saturated fat, total sugars, sodium, protein, and dietary fiber in alignment with Japanese standards. Reference values for fruits, vegetables, nuts, and legumes (fvnl) remained unchanged. Median scores were 4.5 for HSR and 5.0 for NPM-PFJ (1.0), showing high correlation (r = 0.939, p < 0.01). Thereafter, food categories familiar and meaningful in Japan were defined based on a hierarchical cluster analysis of scoring patterns, creating six categories with distinct characteristics. Finally, the rating algorithm for NPM-PFJ (1.0) was created using each group's score distribution (10th percentile). The NPM-PFJ (1.0) was developed through a fully transparent and evidence-based process and is expected to facilitate the reformulation of food products by food industries and help consumers easily access healthier processed foods. This model marks a significant step forward in developing an NPM tailored to Japanese food culture and health policies, with the potential to enhance public health.

Infant formula donations and code violations during earthquake relief efforts in Türkiye in 2023: an observational study

BackgroundOn 6 February 2023, an Mw 7.8 earthquake struck southern and central Türkiye and north-western Syria, affecting the lives of 4.6 and 2.5 million children, respectively. In such crises, infants who are dependent on commercial milk formula (CMF) face increased vulnerability to diseases and malnutrition as safe preparation of CMF becomes difficult and sometimes impossible. The Operational Guidance on Infant and Young Child Feeding in Emergencies (OG-IFE) provides guidance on protecting and supporting recommended infant and young child feeding and minimizing the risks that come with CMF feeding. In addition, the International Code of Marketing of Breastmilk Substitutes (the Code) ensures adequate nutrition for infants by protecting and promoting breastfeeding and ensuring the proper usage of CMF. This study aims to document violations of the Code and the OG-IFE during the earthquake relief efforts to help strengthen infant and young child feeding emergency responses and inform future disaster relief policies.MethodsData was collected from 6 February to 10 March 2023 through Internet sources. Social media, news websites, and the Emergency Nutrition Network forum were used for data collection. Turkish content was translated into English for analysis, with a focus on donation-related information and Code violations related to baby food and infant feeding.ResultsA total of 40 reports on CMF, complementary food, and feeding equipment donations were collected. Three main types of violations of the OG-IFE and the Code were identified, with the majority of them being incidences of individuals, humanitarian organizations, and government agencies seeking or accepting donations. Infant formula companies continued to violate the Code by donating large quantities of CMF and feeding equipment to the Turkish Red Crescent, government agencies, and disaster relief infant and young child feeding (IYCF) coordination authorities.ConclusionsThese incidents reflected a systematic violation of the Code and non-compliance with the OG-IFE. Globally accepted IYCF standards and recommendations were not consistently followed due to fragmented early responses. There is a critical need to step up efforts to ensure appropriate and safe IYCF practice protecting and supporting breastfed and non-breastfed infants in emergencies.