2020: Reduction of Heavy Metals in Infant and Toddler Foods (IIF Impact Funding)
Because of the health benefits of fruits and vegetables, there has been an increasing tendency to add fruits and vegetables into infant and toddler foods. However, the potential risk of high heavy metal contents in fruits and vegetables due to their natural exposure to soil/water, and pesticides, is a significant concern. The Baby Food Council, a collaboration among Cornell University and a group of infant and toddler food companies, seeking to reduce heavy metals in the companies’ products, provided primary support for a project to evaluate the best management practices to reduce harmful heavy metals in infant and toddler food. Cornell researchers will determine the contents of heavy metals, such as Lead, Cadmium, Arsenic, and Mercury; and assess the effects of processing and facilities on heavy metals in the final products.
Cornell Investigator: Rui Hai Liu (CALS/FS)
EDF Investigator: Tom Neltner (Chemicals Policy Director)