Traces of Melamine Found in Baby Formula in U.S.

I was shocked, saddened, and angry when I first heard of the intentional melamine contamination of baby formula in China that was making thousands of babies ill and responsible for the deaths of at least three babies. Well, the AP has just reported that trace amounts of this same industrial chemical was found in baby formula made by three major U.S.-based companies:

The three firms — Abbott Laboratories, Nestle and Mead Johnson — manufacture more than 90 percent of all infant formula produced in the United States.

The FDA and other experts said the melamine contamination in U.S.-made formula had occurred during the manufacturing process, rather than intentionally.

However, the FDA is saying that this is apparently nothing to worry about since only very low levels of melamine were found. Well, I’m worried. Yet another good reason to breastfeed.