A systematic review published in July 2026 in Environmental Toxicology and Pharmacology found multiple pesticide residues in infant formula samples worldwide, with researchers warning of potential short- and long-term health effects on infants.
The analysis, led by researchers at Sapienza University of Rome, examined 26 studies conducted between 1975 and 2025. Of those, 22 reported some form of contamination. Samples came from Europe, the United States, India, Brazil, China, New Zealand, Venezuela, Kenya, and Iran.
What did the review find?
Contamination was not limited to a single class of substances. According to the authors, pesticide residues, heavy metals, persistent environmental contaminants, mycotoxins, and compounds released from packaging materials can coexist within the same product.
Organochlorine compounds were the most frequently detected, appearing in 16 of the reviewed studies. Organophosphates were found in 7 studies, pyrethroids in 4, and triazine herbicides in 3. Several multi-class analyses also identified neonicotinoids, triazoles, and other fungicides.
Where does contamination enter the supply chain?
The researchers noted that contamination can occur at multiple stages of production. Raw materials such as cow’s milk, soy, and cereals may carry agricultural residues, while processing and packaging can introduce additional contaminants.
The authors emphasized that the co-occurrence of multiple compounds may produce additive or synergistic effects that single-substance risk assessments fail to capture.
Why are infants at higher risk?
Infants and young children are more vulnerable to pesticide exposure than adults. Their smaller body size, developing organ systems, hand-to-mouth behavior, and higher intake of food and air relative to body weight all contribute to greater exposure. The study authors described early life as a “window of vulnerability” with critical implications for long-term health.
Endocrine-disrupting chemicals identified in infant formula drew particular concern. The researchers noted that newborns may be subject to combined exposure to multiple contaminants, with the possibility of synergistic effects on the endocrine system. Such interference during development has been linked to reproductive and developmental disorders.
Are current safety limits adequate?
The review authors stated that current maximum residue limits are “not sufficient to guarantee an adequate margin of safety” for infants. Advocacy groups have pointed to a broader transition to organic farming as a way to reduce pesticide residues in infant formula and other foods.
In 2016, the Organic Consumers Association filed a lawsuit against companies it accused of undermining the integrity of the organic label in infant formula. Research cited in the review also pointed to the role of genetically engineered crops in introducing pesticides into the food supply, noting that residues of glyphosate and other herbicides have been detected in animal feed made from herbicide-tolerant crops.
Conclusion
The systematic review adds to a growing body of evidence suggesting that infant formula can carry multiple pesticide residues originating from agricultural inputs, processing, and packaging. The authors conclude that ensuring food safety for the youngest consumers will require moving beyond current regulatory limits to prevent lifelong health impacts.
FAQ
How many studies found pesticide residues in infant formula?
Of 26 studies reviewed between 1975 and 2025, 22 reported some form of contamination in infant formula samples.
Which pesticides were detected most often?
Organochlorine compounds were the most frequently detected, appearing in 16 of the reviewed studies, followed by organophosphates (7 studies), pyrethroids (4), and triazine herbicides (3).
Why are infants more vulnerable to these contaminants?
Infants have smaller body size, developing organ systems, hand-to-mouth behavior, and higher food and air intake relative to body weight, making them more vulnerable. The authors described early life as a “window of vulnerability” for long-term health effects.
