Certification of nutrients in Standard Reference Material 1846: infant formula

Area of Science:

• Analytical Chemistry
• Food Science
• Materials Science

Background:

• Standard Reference Material 1846 (Infant Formula) was developed by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) in 1996.
• It serves as a critical control material for quality assurance in infant formula analysis.
• The material supports the validation of analytical methods for proximates, vitamins, and minerals.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a reliable standard for the accurate measurement of nutritional components in infant formula.
• To establish certified and non-certified values for a comprehensive range of nutrients.
• To support regulatory compliance with the Infant Formula Act of 1980 and the Nutrition Labeling and Education Act of 1990.

Main Methods:

• Manufacturing involved creating a spray-dried formula base fortified with a vitamin premix.
• Analytical methods were validated through measurements by NIST and collaborating laboratories.
• A Certificate of Analysis was issued detailing assigned values for various components.

Main Results:

• Assigned values for proximates, vitamins, and minerals were determined based on inter-laboratory agreement.
• Certified values were provided for key vitamins (A, E, C, B2, B6) and niacin.
• Non-certified and information values were supplied for a broad spectrum of other essential nutrients.

Conclusions:

• SRM 1846 is a valuable tool for ensuring the accuracy and reliability of infant formula analysis.
• It facilitates consistent and comparable measurements across different laboratories.
• The material supports the nutritional labeling accuracy mandated by federal regulations.