Federal Review of Infant Formula Standards Underway Amid Broader Food Safety Push

For the first time in over 25 years, the federal government is launching a comprehensive review of the nutritional standards and safety of infant formula, Axios reports.

The initiative marks a significant step in the broader examination of the US food supply under Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.

Announced Tuesday, the Department of Health and Human Services issued a formal request for information concerning the nutrient makeup of infant formula. Dubbed “Operation Stork Speed,” the initiative aims to reassess nutrient levels, increase testing for contaminants such as heavy metals, and improve product labeling clarity.

Infant formula is a particularly sensitive focus due to its complexity in production and its vulnerable, often medically dependent consumer base. Experts welcome the review, saying current standards are outdated, but emphasize the importance of grounding any changes in rigorous scientific evidence rather than popular trends.

“There’s a real opportunity here, but it has to be done with the best science available,” said Dr. Steven Abrams, a pediatrician and infant formula expert at the University of Texas at Austin.

He cautioned against decisions driven by internet-fueled controversies rather than research.

One such controversy surrounds the use of corn syrup solids in formula as a carbohydrate source. While some parents and wellness influencers push for formulas that rely solely on lactose — which closely mimics breast milk — medical professionals argue that alternatives are essential for infants with lactose sensitivities.

The review is expected to examine several core components of infant nutrition, including:

• Iron levels

• Carbohydrate sources

• Bioactive compounds like DHA (an omega-3 fatty acid)

• Human milk oligosaccharides (complex carbohydrates found in breast milk)

Nutrition professionals stress that the review should be nuanced rather than absolute.

“Statements like ‘no more corn syrup’ are not helpful,” said Laura Modi, founder of organic formula brand Bobbie. “We need guidance that allows for appropriate use across a range of infant needs.”

Formula manufacturers are preparing to engage in the process. Abbott Nutrition, one of the four major US formula suppliers, expressed support for the initiative.

“We welcome the opportunity to contribute our expertise to ensure US infant formula remains world-class and accessible,” the company said in a statement.

The US infant formula market relies heavily on just four companies: Abbott Nutrition, Mead Johnson, Nestle USA, and Perrigo Company. That concentration became a major vulnerability during the 2022 formula crisis, when a product recall and pandemic-related disruptions led to nationwide shortages.

Bridget Young, an infant nutrition researcher at the University of Rochester, believes the current review is rooted in lessons from that crisis. She highlighted the lack of international regulatory alignment — particularly on ingredients like iron — as a barrier to emergency imports during the shortage.

Experts emphasize that any regulatory updates must also consider affordability and avoid stigmatizing ingredients.

“There can be better alternatives to some ingredients, but that doesn’t mean existing ones are harmful,” said Modi.

Some concerns have emerged over the timing of the review, particularly as it coincides with restructuring efforts at HHS that have reportedly included layoffs in the food safety sector — including infant formula researchers. The review also comes amid proposed budget cuts to the WIC program, which purchases roughly half of all infant formula in the United States.

An expert panel is expected to convene in June under the FDA’s leadership to begin the scientific evaluation.