Assessment of Heavy Metal Contamination in Baby Formulas in Bani Waleed City/Libya

Abstract

This investigation sought to assess concentrations of metallic contaminants in infant nutritional products commercially available in Bani Waleed City, Libya. Thirty specimens were systematically acquired from retail establishments, promptly transferred to analytical facilities under controlled conditions, and preserved at 4°C until processing. Quantitative analysis of iron (Fe), lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), and copper (Cu) was conducted using flame atomic absorption spectrometry (FAAS) following standardized protocols. Laboratory results demonstrated cadmium concentrations below instrumental detection limits (0.01 mg/kg), while measurable quantities of iron (8.2 - 16.4 mg/kg), copper (0.8 - 1.8 mg/kg), and lead (0.02-0.1 mg/kg) were identified. All values remained substantially beneath WHO-established safety thresholds (Pb/Cd < 0.1 mg/kg; Cu < 10 mg/kg), confirming regulatory compliance for infant consumption.