Abstract

A total of six infant formulae and eight cereals were analysed for fluoride using a fluoride ion electrode. The infant formulae had a fluoride content which varied form 4.4 to 5.5 ppm. The fluoride in the cereals varied from 4.5 to 5 ppm. The total fluoride intake was calculated using the feeding quantity instructions given by the two manufacturers, Nestle Food Specialities and House of Manji on the labels of the formulae and cereals. The calculations were done at ages two and four months of life in an area with 0.2 ppm fluoride in the drinking water. The formulae provided a higher fluoride intake, but as the fluoride concentration in the drinking water increased, the fluoride intake from water also increased. Weaning cereals are introduced at the age of 4 months but the intake increases from the age of 6 months. Since less water is used in the preparation of cereals, there is reduced fluoride intake from the water at the age of 6 months…