Fluoride levels in breast milk and infant foods

PubMed ID: 11314415The aim of the present study is to determine the fluoride concentrations of breast milk, several milk formulations, cow's milk and yogurt shake in a nonfluoridated area, in order to estimate the fluoride intake of infants and evaluate fluoride supplementation suggestions. Breast milk samples were collected from 57 lactating mothers. Ten brands of milk formulations, 9 different brands of cow's milk and 3 brands of yogurt shake were purchased from the market. Fluoride concentrations of the samples were analyzed using a specific fluoride electrode. The average fluoride level was 0.019±0.004 ppm in breast milk, 0.022±0.007 ppm in cow's milk and 0.022±0.003ppm in yogurt shake. Fluoride levels of milk formulations prepared by distilled water were ranging between 0.118 to 0.021 ppm. It is concluded that in non-fluoridated areas, fluoride intake of infants from the above sources is not very high and fluoride supplements may be prescribed