Determination of Antibiotic Residues in Infant Formulas and Health Risk Assessment
Öz
Objective: This study aimed to determine the levels of tetracycline, β-lactam, and sulfonamide antibiotic residues in infant formulas marketed for different age groups and to evaluate the potential public health implications of exposure.
Materials and Methods: A total of 72 samples, including premature (n=8), hypoallergenic (n=16), 0-6 months (n=18), 6-9 months (n=10), 9-12 months (n=10), and 12-36 months (n=10), were analyzed using the ELISA method. Statistical analyses were performed with one-way ANOVA followed by Tukey’s test, considering p<0.05 as significant.
Results: Tetracycline residues ranged between 0.002 and 30.563 ppb, showing significant differences among groups (p<0.001). β-lactam residues were detected at low concentrations, ranging from 0.254±0.425 ppb in premature formulas to 2.070±0.797 ppb in formulas intended for 12-36 months; however, differences among groups were not statistically significant (F=2.342, p=0.051). Sulfonamide levels were minimal in premature and hypoallergenic groups, but markedly higher in the 9-12 months and 12-36 months’ groups (p<0.001). Risk assessment indicated that estimated daily intake values corresponded to target hazard quotient values below 1, suggesting no immediate health risk, although higher levels in older groups reflected increased exposure potential.
Conclusions: Infant formulas for 9-12 months and 12-36 months contained notable levels of antibiotic residues, though still below the maximum residue limits established for milk. Considering the European Union’s “zero tolerance” policy for infant formulas, continuous monitoring and reinforced regulatory control are necessary to minimize exposure and safeguard infant health.
Anahtar Kelimeler
Infant Formula, Antibiotic Residues, Food Safety, Public Health, Risk Assessment
Destekleyen Kurum
Funding: This work was funded by Cumhuriyet University Scientific Research Projects Unit (BAP), Project No: V-112.
Proje Numarası
CÜBAP-V-112
Etik Beyan
Ethical Approval: Not applicable.
Kaynakça
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