FDA Survey Finds 'Forever Chemicals' in Baby Formula – But Levels Are Low, Experts Say

FDA Survey Finds 'Forever Chemicals' in Baby Formula – But Levels Are Low, Experts Say

WASHINGTON — The U.S. infant formula supply is largely safe, but trace amounts of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), known as 'forever chemicals,' have been detected in half of tested samples, according to a new Food and Drug Administration survey. The FDA tested 312 samples and found PFOS, a type of PFAS, in 50% of them. However, 95% of those positive samples contained less than 2.9 parts per trillion (ppt) — a level experts call extremely low and unlikely to pose a health risk.

“These findings should reassure parents that the formula their babies consume is overwhelmingly safe,” said Dr. Emily Carter, a pediatric toxicologist at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. “The detected PFAS levels are far below any threshold associated with adverse health effects.” The FDA echoed that sentiment, stating that the results indicate no immediate safety concern, but it will continue monitoring.

PFAS are man-made chemicals used in nonstick cookware, stain-resistant fabrics, and firefighting foams. They persist in the environment and can accumulate in the body. Higher exposure has been linked to elevated cholesterol, kidney and testicular cancer, and reduced vaccine effectiveness, according to the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry. The FDA survey did not explain the clinical significance of the levels found, leaving some parents concerned.

Background: Why PFAS in Formula Matters

The FDA conducted the survey as part of its ongoing effort to monitor contaminants in infant formula, which is the sole source of nutrition for many U.S. infants — about two-thirds of babies rely on it. PFAS can enter the food chain through contaminated water, soil, or packaging. In this case, the chemicals likely came from manufacturing processes or environmental sources, though the FDA did not pinpoint the origin.

“Infants are particularly vulnerable because their bodies are still developing,” noted Dr. Mark Richardson, an environmental health researcher at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. “Even low-level exposures, if chronic, warrant careful study.” He emphasized that the current levels are unlikely to cause harm but called for long-term surveillance. The FDA previously set no federal limit for PFAS in infant formula, but the detected levels are well below the 70 ppt health advisory the EPA has for drinking water.

What This Means for Parents and Policy

For parents, the takeaway is twofold: The formula supply is overwhelmingly safe, but steps can further reduce PFAS exposure. Experts recommend using powdered formula prepared with filtered or boiled water (cooled to room temperature) to minimize any potential contaminants. However, there is no evidence that switching to a different brand would reduce PFAS intake, as the survey found similar levels across products.

“Parents should not panic,” said Dr. Carter. “The benefits of formula feeding — when breastfeeding isn’t possible — far outweigh any theoretical risk from these trace chemicals.” She added that the FDA’s findings underscore the need for stricter industrial regulations to prevent PFAS from entering the food supply in the first place.

Long-term health impacts remain unclear, but studies show that sustained, high-level PFAS exposure is harmful. At 2.9 ppt, the levels found are roughly 1,000 times lower than doses used in animal studies that caused effects. The FDA plans to expand its testing to include other food categories, such as fruits and vegetables, to build a broader understanding of dietary PFAS exposure.

Key Facts at a Glance

• FDA tested 312 infant formula samples for PFAS.
• PFOS detected in 50% of samples; 95% had ≤2.9 ppt.
• Two other PFAS (PFOA, PFHxS) found in fewer than 10% of samples at even lower levels.
• No federal standard exists; EPA drinking water advisory is 70 ppt for combined PFAS.

Experts Weigh In

“This survey is a good first step, but we need more data to understand cumulative exposure from multiple sources,” said Dr. Richardson. He advised parents to focus on overall nutrition and not overreact. The FDA spokesperson added: “We are committed to ensuring the safety of the food supply for the most vulnerable populations.”

Read more about PFAS in food: Background on forever chemicals | What these findings mean

In summary, the FDA’s results offer a largely reassuring picture, but they also highlight the persistent challenge of environmental contaminants. Continued monitoring and source reduction are essential next steps to ensure that infant formula remains as safe as possible.