Mineral and nutritional analysis of Polish infant formulas

The mineral composition and nutritional properties of 12 commercially available infant formula products widely distributed in the international market were investigated. Concentrations of the elements whose contents were reported by producers (Ca, Cu, Fe, Mg, Mn, P, Zn), and others with unknown levels (Al, B, Ba, Ni, and Sr), were determined by inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry (ICP-AES). The protein and lactose contents in the formulas were investigated by titrations. The analysis results were generally close to the values declared by the producers. For the elements not reported by the producers, the Al and Ni concentrations were below element detection limits, but the B, Ba and Sr levels were up to 104, 117 and 221 μg/100 g, respectively. The composition of the milk products is discussed, taking into account requirements and daily permissible doses for infants and children, as well as considering the infant formulas as the source of minerals needed for good health and the growth of infants and toddlers.