We tested over 250 infant and children's foods for the process contaminants glycidol, 3-MCPD, 2-MCPD and their esters from 2015 - 2020. These contaminants are undesirable in foods because glycidol is classified as carcinogenic and mutagenic and 3-MCPD is considered possibly carcinogenic to humans. For 2-MCPDs, too few studies are available to make a toxicological statement.

Fats and oils in particular can have high concentrations of these process contaminants and these are used as an ingredient in infant and children's foods. Because infant and children's foods are consumed by the most sensitive groups of people, we regularly study these foods. The average glycidol levels for infant formula (8 μg/kg) and follow-on formula (7 μg/kg) and 3-MCPD levels in infant formula (54 μg/kg) and follow-on formula (35 μg/kg) are low in comparison with the currently applicable maximum levels. Exposure estimates for infants and young children (preterm to 2 years of age) were calculated for glycidol and 3-MCPD from consumption of infant formula, follow-on formula, and infant milk.

In all calculations for the contaminants glycidol and 3-MCPD, there was a sufficient safety margin (MOE: 44425 - 1723986) and no 100% utilization of the toxicological index (3% - 75%).

It can be seen from the Austrian data that the measures taken in recent years have already brought reductions in these contaminants in infant formula and follow-on milk. There were hardly any legal maximum level exceedances. Furthermore, it is recommended to examine these foods for the most sensitive groups of persons within the framework of official food control.