WAFF-TV: News, Weather and Sports for Huntsville, ALHuntsville moms react to arsenic findings in baby food

A new study found alarming levels of arsenic in certain organic baby formulas, raising the question of how beneficial organic baby foods are compared to their inorganic counterparts.

Researchers found higher-than-normal levels of arsenic in organic brown rice syrup, which is used as a sweetener for organic cereal bars, energy drinks, and baby formulas.

Scientists said both "organic" and "inorganic" arsenic are found in trace levels in most foods and drinking water. They said inorganic arsenic is harmful and considered a carcinogen.

What concerns them is that infants - given their small size - are more vulnerable to the toxic substance.

The study revealed certain baby formulas that contain organic brown rice syrup have 20 times more inorganic arsenic than those without the ingredient.

Huntsville mothers and a grandmother reacted to the news on Thursday.

"Well, it disturbs me beyond words," said Betty Carlton.

She said nutrition is crucial in keeping families healthy. "To start babies with arsenic in their food? That's just unbelievable," she said.

Carlton suggested breastfeeding as an alternative for mothers who want the best nutrition for their child. Other moms said that option isn't only safer, it saves money.

"It's more cost-effective for us. We didn't need to spend any extra money on formula," Angie Powell said.

Another mom feeds her baby girl formula, but she opted out of the organic version.

"My husband did the research and Enfamil is supposed to be a really good one. Top of the line and my pediatrician recommended it too," Jessica Morgan said.

Dr. Martha Verghese, a professor of food and animal sciences at Alabama A&M, cited studies that show nutrient levels are equal in organic and non-organic foods. She also noted it's important to consider the syrup samples and what rice crops they originated from. Researchers said they tested 17 organic baby formulas, purchased in New Hampshire.

Betty Carlton said mothers could do more than just breast feed to ensure their babies health.

"I think that mothers and grandparents are going to start preparing their baby's food themselves and that is a very easy thing to do," she said.

None of the different infant formulas tested were specified. The findings appear in the health journal, Environmental Health Perspectives.

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