PFAS Contamination in Infant Formula: What Parents Need to Know

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a group of man-made chemicals that have raised concerns due to their persistence in the environment and potential health effects. Recent reports indicate that some infant formula products still contain traces of PFAS, sparking questions about safety and exposure. This Q&A addresses key concerns based on current scientific understanding and regulatory actions.

What are PFAS and why are they found in infant formula?

PFAS are a class of thousands of synthetic chemicals used in non-stick coatings, waterproofing, and food packaging due to their resistance to heat, oil, and water. They can leach into food from packaging or through environmental contamination of water and soil used in agriculture. In infant formula, PFAS may originate from the manufacturing process (e.g., from equipment or packaging) or from raw ingredients such as milk powder sourced from animals exposed to PFAS through feed or water. Once in the formula, these chemicals do not break down easily, leading to potential accumulation in the body.

How do PFAS enter the infant formula supply chain?

PFAS can enter the supply chain at multiple points. Packaging is a common source—some paperboard containers are treated with PFAS to repel grease and moisture. Industrial contamination of water sources used in formula production is another pathway. Additionally, agricultural inputs like contaminated water or feed can introduce PFAS into dairy products used for milk-based formulas. The lack of federal testing standards for PFAS in infant foods has allowed these chemicals to persist undetected in some products.

What health risks are associated with PFAS exposure in infants?

Infants are especially vulnerable because their bodies are still developing and they consume a large amount of formula relative to their body weight. Studies on PFAS exposure have linked elevated blood levels to immune system suppression, reduced birth weight, thyroid disruption, and possible effects on liver function and reproductive health. While the levels found in typical formula are low, chronic exposure during critical growth periods may pose cumulative risks. The American Academy of Pediatrics has called for stricter limits on PFAS in infant foods.

Which infant formula brands have been tested for PFAS?

Consumer advocacy groups like the Clean Label Project have tested numerous formulas. In their 2024 report, several leading brands (such as Similac, Enfamil, and generic store brands) showed detectable levels of PFAS, though most remained below 1 part per billion. However, no brand is completely free of risk. Organic formulas generally had lower PFAS levels but were not zero. The FDA has not yet set enforceable limits for PFAS in infant formula, so these findings rely on independent testing.

What should parents do to minimize PFAS exposure from formula?

Parents concerned about PFAS can take several steps:

• Choose powdered formula over ready-to-feed liquid, because packaging for liquid often has higher PFAS risk.
• Select brands that publish third-party testing results or those with commitment to PFAS-free packaging.
• Store formula in glass containers if possible, rather than transferring to plastic.
• Use filtered water for mixing formula, as tap water may contain PFAS.
• Diversify your baby's diet when they start solids to reduce reliance on formula.

Remember that breastfeeding, if feasible, typically contains lower PFAS levels than formula, though PFAS can still be passed through breast milk.

Are government agencies regulating PFAS in infant formula?

Currently, there is no federal limit specifically for PFAS in infant formula. The FDA has established action levels for certain PFAS in bottled water but not for formula. In 2023, the FDA announced a voluntary phase-out of PFAS in food packaging by 2025, which includes formula containers. Meanwhile, the Environmental Protection Agency has proposed drinking water standards for PFAS, which could reduce agricultural contamination. Some states like Washington and Maine have passed their own restrictions. Advocacy groups are pushing for mandatory testing and enforceable limits to protect infants.

Can PFAS be removed from infant formula at home?

Unfortunately, once PFAS are present in the formula powder, they cannot be removed by any home preparation method. Boiling does not destroy PFAS; in fact, it can concentrate them as water evaporates. Microwaving or using a stove top will not eliminate these chemicals. The only way to avoid PFAS from formula is to choose a product with reduced contamination or to rely on breastfeeding. Some filters can remove PFAS from water used to mix formula, but this does not address PFAS already in the powder itself.

What does the research say about long-term exposure from formula?

Longitudinal studies like the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey have tracked PFAS in children’s blood. Infants who consumed formula exclusively for six months had significantly higher PFOS and PFOA levels than breastfed infants. However, these levels tend to decline as children grow and the body excretes the chemicals slowly. The concern remains for cumulative effects during infancy. Animal studies show immune system changes at low doses. More research is needed to confirm the long-term impact in humans, but the precautionary principle supports reducing exposure where possible.