WASHINGTON (7News) -- In a move signaling a renewed focus on infant health, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has initiated its first comprehensive review of baby formula nutrient requirements since 1998.
The agency announced a "Request for Information" this week, a critical step under its "Operation Stork Speed" initiative aimed at bolstering the safety and reliability of the nation's infant formula supply.
This long-awaited review comes against a backdrop of increasing scrutiny and historical concerns surrounding the safety and nutritional content of both infant formula and baby food. Years of reports and investigations have highlighted the presence of concerning levels of heavy metals and persistent "forever chemicals" in baby food products.
RELATED | Baby formula shortage: Maryland health officials share safe alternatives brands
The fragility of the infant formula supply chain was also exposed during the COVID-19 pandemic, underscoring the need for robust regulatory oversight. Tragically, the industry has also faced incidents of bacterial contamination in formula, leading to the death of two infants and severe brain damage to another.
Adding to the agency's recent actions, the FDA also announced enhanced testing protocols, specifically targeting heavy metals and other contaminants in infant formula and foods intended for young children. These parallel efforts suggest interest in addressing long-standing concerns about the safety of what America's youngest consume.
READ MORE | Months after shortage made headlines, DMV parents still struggling to find baby formula
Since taking his post as FDA Commissioner, Dr. Marty Makary has emphasized the critical need for rigorous safety standards and evidence-based regulation in the food supply, particularly for vulnerable populations like infants.
The "Request for Information" signifies the FDA's initial phase of data gathering. The agency is actively soliciting input from researchers, formula manufacturers, healthcare professionals, and the public. This information will be crucial in determining whether current nutrient requirements for baby formula need to be updated to reflect the most current scientific understanding of infant nutritional needs for healthy growth and development.
The FDA is urging all interested parties to participate in the process by submitting relevant data, research, and perspectives. Information on how to contribute to the FDA's Request for Information can be found here.