Arsenic has made its way into infant formula, according to a recently published report. Researchers from Dartmouth University discovered arsenic in two defective products: infant formula and cereal bars. It is not known whether any of the products tested were sold in Pennsylvania.

Two brands of infant formula that were found to have arsenic levels above the EPA standard for drinking water, both contained brown rice syrup. Ironically, a spokesperson for the manufacturer of the formula said it used organic brown rice syrup because of its "high nutritional qualities." A doctor who was not involved with the study said that rice syrup is highly concentrated, whereas whole-grain rice has a high water content. High levels of arsenic were also found in cereal bars containing brown rice syrup.

In a fact sheet for parents that was issued with the study, researchers noted that arsenic does not accumulate in the body and will leave a child's system within a few days. However, information regarding the long-term effects of exposure to arsenic in these levels is not available because the levels are higher than those permitted for drinking water. Testing a child for arsenic is not recommended because the chemical does not remain in the body.

Authors of the study suggested that concerned parents consult their child's pediatrician about switching to an infant formula that does not contain brown rice syrup. Because of the seriousness of the news regarding the arsenic, it is highly likely that parents who are in-the-know will follow this advice.

Source: Los Angeles Times, "Arsenic found in some infant formula, cereal bars," Shari Roan, Feb. 16, 2012