High Arsenic Levels Found in Certain Organic Foods, Including Baby Food

Feb. 17, 2012 - PRLog -- According to a new study, high levels of arsenic have been found in foods that list organic rice syrup, a replacement for high fructose corn syrup, as a primary ingredient. The study examined arsenic levels in 17 infant formulas, 29 cereal bars, and three energy shot drinks. The researchers say that the arsenic in the cereal bars and energy shot drinks are not as concerning as the levels in baby foods, because the arsenic might have a more serious effect in smaller, developing bodies.

Arsenic has two forms: organic and inorganic. The organic form is not associated with harmful health effects, while the inorganic form is. This study focused on the inorganic arsenic content of the foods. One infant formula that they tested showed an inorganic arsenic level that was twice the level of the Environmental Protection Agency’s limit in drinking water.

“Testing food and drinks for arsenic levels can be complicated by the fact that arsenic has different forms,” states Shannon Kauffman, Metals Laboratory Supervisor at EMSL Analytical, Inc. “At EMSL, we offer arsenic speciation testing to determine what type of arsenic is in the sample—the organic form or the inorganic one, which is a harmful carcinogen.

“EMSL Analytical is one of the few laboratories in the country with the capabilities to perform the speciation of arsenic and other substances, while the majority of other companies often outsource their work,” she continues.

EMSL Analytical offers arsenic and other metals speciation testing for a variety of samples, including juices, food products, drinking water, and other consumer products.

For more information on EMSL’s testing services, please contact EMSL at (800) 220-3675, visit www.EMSL.com or email info@EMSL.com.

About EMSL Analytical, Inc.

EMSL Analytical is a nationally recognized and locally focused provider of environmental and materials testing services and products to professionals and the general public. The company has an extensive list of accreditations from leading organizations, as well as state and federal regulating bodies.

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EMSL Analytical Inc. is a nationally recognized accredited testing laboratory and locally focused provider of consumer product, environmental, microbiology, industrial hygiene, food and materials testing services to professionals and the general public.