Fluoride levels in breast milk and infant foods

The aim of the present study is to determine the fluoride concentrations of breast milk, several milk formulations, cow's milk and yogurt shake in a nonfluoridated area, in order to estimate the fluoride intake of infants and evaluate fluoride supplementation suggestions. Breast milk samples were collected from 57 lactating mothers. Ten brands of milk formulations, 9 different brands of cow's milk and 3 brands of yogurt shake were purchased from the market. Fluoride concentrations of the samples were analyzed using a specific fluoride electrode. The average fluoride level was 0.019 +/- 0.004 ppm in breast milk, 0.022 +/- 0.007 ppm in cow's milk and 0.022 +/- 0.003 ppm in yogurt shake. Fluoride levels of milk formulations prepared by distilled water were ranging between 0.118 to 0.021 ppm. It is concluded that in non-fluoridated areas, fluoride intake of infants from the above sources is not very high and fluoride supplements may be prescribed.