Seven Heavy Metals Found in Infant Cereals and Baby Food
NonToxCo Research
Science & Safety Team · 4/8/2026
Researchers tested infant cereals and found seven different heavy metals at levels that pose health risks to babies.
Metals in Baby Food
A 2026 study in Toxics measured concentrations of seven metals in infant cereals and snacks marketed for children. The probabilistic health risk assessment found concerning exposure levels for young children who eat these products regularly.
Baby food undergoes processing that can concentrate metals from the raw ingredients. Rice-based cereals are especially prone to arsenic contamination.
What You Can Do
Vary your baby's grains (don't rely solely on rice cereal). Choose brands that test for heavy metals. Make homemade baby food when possible. Browse non-toxic baby products for safer feeding options.
Source: Authors (2026). Toxics.