As a new or expectant mother, you’re doing everything you can to give your baby the best start in life. If you’re using or considering infant formula products, it’s completely understandable to have questions about safety—especially after recent recalls and news reports about toxins and contaminants found in some powdered formulas sold in the United States. This care guide is designed to help you understand what’s been found, what it may mean for your baby’s health, and how to make informed, confident feeding decisions.

What Recent Testing Has Found

Recent independent testing has raised important questions about the safety of powdered infant formula. A Consumer Reports investigation analyzed 41 samples of powdered infant formulas and found that nearly half contained concerning levels of at least one contaminant, including heavy metals and industrial chemicals.

While infant formula remains an essential and regulated food for babies who are not breastfed—or who combo feed—these findings have understandably caused worry for parents. Here's what was found:

Heavy Metals and Chemical Contaminants

Arsenic

Arsenic is a naturally occurring heavy metal that can contaminate water, soil, and the foods grown in it. Long-term exposure has been linked to increased cancer risk and potential effects on growth and development. There is currently no specific federal limit for arsenic in infant formula, though the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) limits arsenic in drinking water to 10 parts per billion (ppb).

Consumer Reports used a “hazard quotient” to estimate exposure levels below which adverse health effects would not be expected. Most samples tested fell below this threshold, but seven samples exceeded it, and two additional samples came very close, raising concerns about cumulative exposure for infants who rely on formula as their primary source of nutrition.

Lead

There is no known safe level of lead exposure for infants and children. Even small amounts can affect brain development and have been linked to learning difficulties, behavior challenges, and lower IQ. While most lead exposure in children comes from older homes with lead-based paint, lead can also find its way into food during manufacturing. 

Consumer Reports detected lead in nearly all powdered formula samples tested, with levels ranging from 1.2 to 4.2 ppb. While these amounts may seem low, experts emphasize that babies may be exposed to lead from multiple sources—including water, food, and the environment—making total exposure more concerning.

PFAS (Forever Chemicals)

PFAS are man-made chemicals that persist in the environment and can remain in the body for years. They have been associated with effects on immune function, hormone regulation, and overall health.

Consumer Reports found PFAS in nearly every sample tested. These chemicals may enter formula through water, ingredients, or food packaging, and their widespread presence has increased calls for stronger oversight and testing.

Other Chemicals

The study also tested for additional chemicals, including:

  • Bisphenol A (BPA)

  • Acrylamide

These substances were detected in only one sample, which is reassuring. Mercury was not detected in any samples, and cadmium levels were found to be very low and not considered concerning by experts.

Bacterial Contamination and Infant Illness

In addition to chemical contaminants, powdered infant formula exposure has also been linked to rare but serious bacterial infections. Cronobacter sakazakii is a bacteria that can survive in dry foods like powdered formula and has been associated with severe illness, especially in newborn infants under 2 months of age, infants born prematurely or those with compromised immune systems.

In some cases, exposure has resulted in poor feeding, lethargy, difficulty breathing, or life-threatening infections requiring medical attention. Parents should seek immediate medical care if an infant shows signs of illness after consuming formula.

To help protect your baby, follow careful preparation practices. The CDC recommends that, for very young or medically vulnerable infants, water used to prepare powdered formula be brought to a rolling boil and then allowed to cool for no longer than 5 minutes before mixing. For healthy, older infants, standard preparation according to the manufacturer’s instructions remains safe.

Infant Botulism and Formula

Infant botulism is rare, but it can be serious. It occurs when an infant ingests Clostridium botulinum spores, which can grow in the immature gut and release toxin—a process that can lead to muscle weakness and paralysis.

In late 2025, federal, state, and local public health agencies identified a multistate outbreak of infant botulism associated with exposure to powdered infant formula. Agencies involved included the California Department of Public Health, along with partners in Rhode Island, New Jersey, Washington State, North Carolina, and Florida—prompting a nationwide recall of affected products. The number of infant botulism cases reported in this outbreak was unusually high and led to dozens of hospitalizations, but thankfully, no deaths were reported.

Symptoms of Infant Botulism May Include:

  • Poor feeding or difficulty swallowing

  • Weak cry or reduced facial expression

  • Loss of head control

  • Constipation

  • In severe cases, respiratory arrest

If infant botulism is suspected, infant botulism treatment is available and highly effective when started early. Prompt medical care makes a significant difference in recovery.

Recent Baby Formula Recalls

In recent years, multiple voluntary recalls of powdered formula products have occurred following test results, consumer complaints, and reports of sick infants. Some recalls were initiated out of caution rather than confirmed illness, but even though infections are rare, these events highlight the importance of safe handling, staying informed about formula safety, and following evolving public health guidance.

Infant Formula Shortage

In addition to recalls and safety concerns, many families have recently experienced challenges finding formula due to supply issues. A few years ago, the United States faced a major infant formula shortage, with reports that as much as 75% of certain powdered and specialty formulas were unavailable on store shelves. This shortage was largely driven by supply chain disruptions and the temporary shutdown of a manufacturing facility following a voluntary recall, which significantly reduced the availability of several popular brands.

Shortage concerns can be stressful for parents who rely on formula as their primary source of nutrition for their babies. During these times, it’s especially important to stay connected with your pediatrician and local health authorities, who can help guide safe feeding options, including alternatives or temporary substitutions, if necessary.

How to Reduce Exposure and Feed with Confidence

Simple steps you take every day can meaningfully reduce risk when preparing and feeding your baby.

Safe Handling and Preparation

  • Clean your hands with soap and water prior to preparing your baby's bottle

  • Prepare formula exactly as directed by manufacturer instructions, taking extra precautions for newborns

  • Wash items used for feeding with hot, soapy water

  • Always check the lot number on formula containers

  • Stay informed about recalls that may affect products currently on store shelves

If you ever suspect an adverse event related to formula, contact your pediatrician and report concerns to your local or state health department.

Choose Carefully

About half of the formulas in Consumer Reports’ study contained low or no concerning levels of chemicals. So, while some brands were problematic, many others are safe and trustworthy. Click this link for brands with good safety records and those that commit to regular testing for contaminants.

Liquid Formula

Liquid formula—whether ready-to-feed or liquid concentrate—is sterile and may be a safer choice than powdered, especially for newborns and babies with compromised immune systems. Not only are liquid formulas heat-treated to be free from bacterial contamination, but the manufacturing process may offer potentially less risk of cross contamination with harmful chemicals. 

Consider Organic

Organic formulas often have fewer contaminants, but it’s still important to check the safety records of the specific brand. Look for companies that regularly test their products for heavy metals and other harmful substances.

Clean Water

If you’re concerned about pollutants in your tap water, consider testing and filtering it before using it to prepare powdered formula. This can reduce your baby’s exposure to harmful chemicals like PFAS.

Breastfeed

Even partial breastfeeding can help reduce your baby’s exposure to toxins and contaminants in formula. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends breastfeeding as the sole source of nutrition for your baby for about 6 months. The AAP supports continued breastfeeding after solid foods are introduced as long as you and your baby desire, for 2 years or beyond.

Increased Government Oversight

Infant formula sales and production are closely monitored, but recent findings have revealed gaps in how contaminants are identified and addressed across the industry. As awareness has grown, both parents and health professionals have called for stronger oversight of infant formula brands and manufacturing practices.

In response, federal and state health departments have increased testing, reporting, and coordination related to infant formula safety. These disease control and prevention programs focus on identifying potential adverse events, tracking recalled formulas, and improving transparency around how these products are manufactured and tested.

After Consumer Reports shared their findings with the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the agency launched an initiative called “Operation Stork Speed” to improve oversight of the formula industry. New initiatives emphasize:

  • Expanded testing for heavy metals and chemical contaminants

  • Improved monitoring of manufacturing facilities

  • Faster communication with state partners during recalls

  • Greater accountability across the supply chain

While no system is perfect, these changes represent meaningful progress toward safer products and better protection for vulnerable infants.

Support is Available

Breastfeeding remains the healthiest, safest option for feeding babies, but we know that new mothers sometimes struggle to find the help and support they need. Working with a lactation consultant or attending a breastfeeding support group can help you overcome your breastfeeding challenges, minimize your need for formula, and meet your breastfeeding goals. Remember, even partial breastfeeding offers your baby tremendous health benefits and reduces their exposure to concerning ingredients in infant formula. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you need help.

Disclaimer: Our classes and accompanying materials are intended for general education purposes and should not replace medical advice. For personalized recommendations, please consult your healthcare provider and/or lactation consultant.