Fluoride concentration of commercially available infant formulae in the United Arab Emirates

To assess fluoride concentration in infant formulae commercially available in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and compare the measured levels of fluoride to the reported ones on the label.

Twenty-four different infant formula samples collected from retailers in the UAE market were tested for the fluoride content using ion-selective electrode method. Statistical analysis was performed using descriptive statistics and Mann-Whitney test. P < 0.05 was considered significant.

The mean fluoride content of baby formula samples collected was 0.19 ppm (range 0-0.4 ppm). All tested samples of formulae were manufactured outside the UAE. Following the daily recommended manufacturer's preparation guidelines, tested formulae had a range of 0-0.35 mg of fluoride per day, a concentration below the average daily recommended fluoride intake for a 6-month-old infant with an average weight of 7.2-8 kg (0.36-0.42 mg fluoride). Out of the 11 samples where the fluoride content was mentioned on the label, only two were verified to have a somewhat accurate reported concentration when comparing the concentration mentioned on the label with our test results. Out of the 13 samples with no fluoride concentration mentioned on the label, three were found to have no fluoride (Neocate, Isomil, Aptamil), while the remainder (10) contained fluoride with a range of (0.1-0.4 ppm).

All the UAE available infant formulae tested had lower than the maximum daily recommended dosage of fluoride. Many labeling inaccuracies were observed. Accurate labeling guidelines are recommended.