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Pesticide contamination in infant formula: A Systematic review
Arianna Antonucci1, Gabriele D'Ancona1, Laura Grisolia1
1Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University of Rome, P.le Aldo Moro 5, Rome 00185, Italy.
Environmental Toxicology and Pharmacology
|June 19, 2026
Summary
Pesticide residues are frequently found in infant formula, with multiple classes detected in most studies. While generally below legal limits, this widespread contamination necessitates caution for infant health.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Chemistry
- Food Safety
- Toxicology
Background:
- Infant formula is a critical nutrition source for infants.
- Pesticide contamination in food poses potential health risks, especially to vulnerable populations like infants.
- Existing data on pesticide levels in infant formula requires systematic evaluation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review and synthesize evidence on pesticide contamination in infant formula.
- To identify the types and prevalence of pesticide residues in infant formula.
- To assess the implications of detected pesticide levels for infant health and safety.
Main Methods:
- Systematic literature review following PRISMA 2020 guidelines.
- Searches conducted in PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science (updated to August 7, 2025).
- Inclusion of studies reporting original analytical data on pesticides in infant formula; methodological quality assessed using JBI checklist.
Main Results:
- Twenty-six studies (1975-2025) were included; 22 detected pesticides.
- Common pesticide classes found include organochlorines, organophosphates, pyrethroids, neonicotinoids, and herbicides.
- Pesticide concentrations were generally below legal thresholds, but multi-class residues were frequent, warranting caution.
Conclusions:
- Frequent detection of multi-class pesticide residues in infant formula highlights a need for ongoing monitoring.
- Limited studies assessed dietary intake, indicating a gap in exposure assessment methodologies.
- An integrated approach with robust data, harmonized models, and infant-specific toxicology is crucial for evidence-based infant protection policies.
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