Determination of Iron in Baby Weaning Food and Powder Milk

Iron is a mineral that’s necessary for life. Essentially, it is responsible for carrying oxygen in your red blood cells and transmitting nerve impulses. And it is necessary for growth, development, normal cellular functioning, and synthesis of some hormones and connective tissue. Commonly, not having enough iron in the body leads to anemia. According to research, it has been found that a man needs an average daily intake pf 7 mg of iron and a woman 11 mg; and a normal diet will generally provide all that is needed. As for babies, they usually get needed iron from breast milk for the first 6 months. At around 6 months, they will need iron-rich complementary foods as well as breast milk.

Based on the important roles of iron in human bodies, the authors in this study determined the concentration of iron in baby weaning food and powder milk available in Iran. The concentration of iron in four brands of powder milk and baby food (based on rice and based on wheat) was analyzed with differential pulse anodic stripping voltammetry (DPASV) and voltammeter device. Total Means ± SE of Iron in baby foods and powder milk (n = 40) were 8.55 ± 1.18 mg/100g, 5.21 ± 0.66 respectively. Iron level in baby food type I and II was lower than labeled value (p < 0.05). Concentration of Iron in powder milk type I and II was also lower than value of label (p < 0.05). All in all, the amount of iron in the samples was less than the amount printed on cans that had milk and baby food. It seems to be more precise control of baby food for health and child development.

Finally, through this study, more attention should be given to: iron intake by breast-fed infants; recommendations for iron supplements; the distribution of iron in milk-binding factors; and the bioavailability of iron from breast milk. 

Article by Behrooz Jannat, et al, from Tehran, Iran.

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