As parents, we are naturally concerned about what our children eat, especially when we hear terms like "heavy metals in baby food debunked." It's a complex topic filled with scientific terms, and Else Nutrition took the initiative to help clarify it.

We recently hosted a must-see webinar, bringing together a panel of experts to discuss the realities of "heavy metals in baby food" and the role of the FDA in regulating baby food quality. Our guest speakers brought a wealth of knowledge to the table, and we've put together this blog post to highlight some key moments and insights from the discussion.

Meet the Speakers 



Dr. Kayla Bridges is an award-winning researcher in pediatric nutrition from Rutgers University. Her diverse research interests range from infant feeding preparation to the effects of protein sources in human milk fortifiers. Her insights throughout the webinar provided a deep understanding of infant nutrition and the impact of various food constituents on child development.



Jaclyn "Jackie" Bowen directs the Clean Label Project, a consumer advocacy organization aimed at bringing transparency to food and product labeling. Her organization uses science to debunk the myths and fears around food safety and quality, a mission that resonated throughout her discussion on baby food without heavy metals. 



Emily Bair serves as a registered dietitian at Michigan Medicine C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital. With a focus on chronic disease, food allergies, and nutrition support, Emily provided her expertise on practical dietary considerations for children. 



Robert "Bob" Durkin brought a legal perspective to the discussion as a partner at Arnall Golden Gregory LLP specializing in Food & Drug law. With experience as the Deputy Director of FDA's Office of Dietary Supplement Programs, he shed light on the FDA's efforts to regulate heavy metals in baby food. 

Key Discussion Points and Highlights 

Throughout the webinar, several recurring questions served as the foundation for our discussion. 

Does the FDA regulate heavy metals in baby food? 

This was one of the first questions we tackled. Bob Durkin clarified that the FDA is indeed working on setting standards and regulations regarding heavy metal limits in food, including baby food. He also shared information on FDA's Toxic Elements Working Group, which prioritizes reducing exposure to lead, arsenic, and other heavy metals in foods. 

What is the FDA limit on lead in baby food and other heavy metals? 

While the FDA is still establishing specific limits, our speakers emphasized the importance of choosing baby food manufacturers committed to stringent testing and the lowest possible levels of heavy metals. Jackie Bowen's Clean Label Project awards the Purity Award to such brands, serving as a valuable resource for parents. 

Are baby foods tested for heavy metals? Which baby foods are safe from heavy metals? 

Jackie Bowen addressed these questions, explaining that some brands voluntarily test their products and strive for transparency. She urged parents to research brands and select those with a commitment to purity and safety. 

How can we avoid heavy metals in food? 

Emily Bair offered practical tips, such as diversifying your child's diet, which can help minimize exposure to potential contaminants. 

The webinar was filled with rich, in-depth discussions about these questions and more. We tackled the myths, the misconceptions, and the facts about baby food and the presence of heavy metals. 

Watch The Replay

We encourage everyone to watch the replay of the webinar for a comprehensive understanding of this important topic.

Else Nutrition is dedicated to providing resources and solutions for parents seeking healthier options for their children. We believe in transparency, safety, and nutrition that supports the overall well-being of every child. 

Disclaimer: This post is intended to provide a general summary of the webinar and is not a complete transcript. The views expressed by the speakers are their own and do not necessarily represent the views of Else Nutrition.