Infant formula and follow-up formula may contain harmful 3-MCPD fatty acid esters

Free 3-monochloropropane-1,2-diol (3-MCPD) has been identified as a contaminant for a long time in various foods like liquid seasoning or bakery goods heated to high temperatures. This substance is formed when fat-containing and salt-containing foods are processed at high temperatures during production. In animal experiments 3-MCPD has led to an increase in the cell count (hyperplasia) in renal tubules and, at higher levels, it triggered benign tumours. No genotoxic effect was observed. BfR has evaluated the data submitted by the food control authorities. It has come to the conclusion that - based on the scientific knowledge currently available - babies in particular may ingest amounts of 3-MCPD esters from infant formula and follow-up formula for which, in the worst case scenario, the margin of safety to the effects observed in animal experiments is deemed to be too small. BfR, therefore, believes there is a need for action to reduce the levels but does not see any acute health risk.

3-MCPD esters are compounds of 3-MCPD and various fatty acids which are formed at high temperatures under hydration following a reaction between fats and chloride ions. These studies by the food control authorities in Baden-Württemberg showed that all refined vegetable oils and fats contain considerable amounts of 3-MCPD fatty acid esters. Only oil that had not undergone any heat treatment (e.g. native olive oil) did not contain the substance.