The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has announced action levels to reduce harmful elements in foods and drinks for babies and young children with its Closer to Zero initiative. The initiative aims to lower levels of toxic elements such as lead, cadmium, mercury, and arsenic, which can be found in some processed baby foods and pose potential risks to infant health and development (1). Babies and young children are especially vulnerable to lead exposure as it harms brain development, immune function, and overall health. In foods, these toxic elements are measured in units called parts per billion (ppb), which describes the amount of a pollutant in a specific food item (5). While it may seem like a small measurement, contaminants can harm health even at these low levels. Processed foods refer to packaged foods in jars, pouches, tubs, or boxes, as well as ready-to-eat and semi-prepared foods intended for babies and young children under two years old (1).
The action levels for lead in processed baby foods should not exceed more than (1):
- 10 parts per billion (ppb) for fruits, vegetables, yogurts, custards, puddings, grain- and meat-based mixtures, and single-ingredient meats;
- 20 ppb for single-ingredient root vegetables (carrots, sweet potatoes, beets, etc.); and
- 20 ppb for dry infant cereals.
It is difficult to eliminate the presence of lead in our everyday lives because it can be found in all parts of our environment. Since there is no safe level of exposure to lead, the FDA monitors and regulates lead levels in food and makes recommendations based on their findings. Ongoing research, monitoring, and industry collaboration with food manufacturers ensures that efforts to improve food safety and minimize contamination risks are being met (2). California is one step ahead with Assembly Bill 899, which became effective in January 2024 and requires baby food sold and distributed in the state to be tested at least once a month (6). AB 899 also requires manufacturers to provide the test results of each toxic element in the final baby food product on their website, as well as a link to related FDA guidance.
To protect against lead at home, parents should expand their child’s diet, avoid relying on a single food type too often, and choose trusted brands that prioritize safety and transparency. Good nutrition is key to protecting against the effects of exposure to lead and other toxic elements (3). Including foods rich in iron, zinc, calcium, and vitamin C in your child’s diet is essential for their development. Key sources of these nutrients include whole grains, meat, poultry, seafood, and beans (4). Empty stomachs absorb lead much more readily so be sure to provide your child with regular meals and snacks to help prevent lead exposure. Through the Closer to Zero initiative, the FDA is one step closer to stopping lead in baby foods. Let us all do our part to provide our little ones with the healthiest possible start in life. Stay informed, and support the ongoing work to ensure a safer food supply for our youngest consumers.
Visit the Clean Label Project to learn about the best and safest food brands to feed your child.
Read more about the FDA’s Closer to Zero Initiative here:
- Guidance for Industry: Action Levels for Lead in Processed Food Intended for Babies and Young Children | FDA (1)
- Closer to Zero: Reducing Childhood Exposure to Contaminants from Foods | FDA (2)
- Lead in Food and Foodwares | FDA (3)
- Help Protect Children from Environmental Contaminants: Healthy Food Choices for Your Baby Aged 6-12 Months | FDA (4)
Other references:
What are parts per million, billion and trillion? | Environmental Working Group (5)
Baby Food Safety (6)