290: Evaluating Mineral Content in Preterm Human Milk and Infant Formulas in Qatar

Introduction

Preterm birth is a public health concern associated with increased child mortality and long-term health impacts.

Methods

This study investigated the concentration of essential trace minerals (manganese, copper, iron, and zinc) in preterm human milk and infant formulas in Qatar, assessing their compliance with international nutritional requirements and nutrition labels. Samples included 50 human milk samples from lactating mothers of preterm infants at Hamad Hospital, 42 infant formulas from markets and pharmacies, and 10 water samples commonly used in Qatar.

Results

According to American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition (A.S.P.E.N) guidelines, all human milk and infant formulas were below the recommended zinc and iron ranges. Additionally, 96% (48/50) of human milk and 95% (40/42) of infant formulas were below the recommended copper range. Furthermore, 34% (17/50) of human milk samples for manganese were below the recommended range, while 86% (36/42) of infant formulas exceeded it. Water samples exhibited mineral levels below detectable limits, indicating no contribution to the mineral content of reconstituted formulas. Significant differences were found between label and laboratory-tested values for copper (p = 0.0039) and zinc (p = 0.0000), with label values higher than laboratory results. No significant differences were observed for manganese (p = 0.7564) or iron (p = 0.1966). Label-reported levels of copper, zinc, and iron were significantly higher in preterm than term formulas (p < 0.001), while manganese was higher in term formulas (p = 0.029). Laboratory tests showed similar trends, but copper, zinc, and iron levels in preterm formulas were not significantly higher than the ones in term formulas (p > 0.05). Reconstituted infant formulas had significantly higher manganese, zinc, and iron levels (p < 0.001) than human milk, while copper showed no significant difference (p = 0.324).

Significance

These findings highlight the need to address mineral imbalances to protect preterm infants from negative outcomes.

Authors: Layal Karam, Zainab Haji, Rana Mohammed, Hanan AlFardan, Najma Vatankhah, Grace Attieh, Maya Bassil