Abstract

Aim/Background: Infant formulas are a critical nutritional alternative for babies to meet their nutritional needs, particularly those who, for a reason, cannot be exclusively breastfed. However, sugars are frequently added, which may contribute to health problems such as adverse dental health. Several brands of infant formulas are commonly consumed in Nigeria, and their availability and popularity vary among places.
Methods: The study analysed widely consumed infant formula brands in Sokoto town, Sokoto state, My Boy Eldorin (A), NAN OptiPro (B), and Peak Baby (C) using standard biochemical assay methods: Seliwanoff’s, 3,5-Dinitrosalicylic Acid (DNSA), Benedict’s, and titrimetric.
Results: The results revealed substantial variability in the concentration of sugars (fructose, glucose, lactose, sucrose, and maltose), all of which differed significantly (p < 0.05) among the three brands except for lactose. Brand A exhibited the highest levels (mg/g) of fructose, glucose, and sucrose (318.6 ± 4.7, 418.9 ± 4.8, 610.0 ± 4.8, respectively) while Brand B had the lowest, however, it contained the highest maltose concentration (64.8 ± 0.9 mg/g).
Conclusion: There are variably high fructose, glucose, and sucrose concentrations in the studied infant formula brands. However, the observed lactose levels were broadly similar in the 3 samples. This suggests the need for continuous monitoring and regulation of infant formula composition to safeguard infant health.

Key words: Infant formulas, Sugars, Composition.