Rocket Fuel In Infant Formula

ATLANTA (AP) - A government study says traces of a chemical used
in rocket fuel have been found in samples of powdered baby formula.
It says the amount could exceed what's considered a safe dose
for adults if mixed with water also contaminated with the
ingredient.
The study by scientists at the U.S. Centers for Disease Control
and Prevention looked for the chemical, perchlorate, in different
brands of powdered baby formula. It was published last month, but
the Environmental Working Group issued a press release Thursday
drawing attention to it.
No tests have ever shown the chemical caused health problems,
but scientists have said significant amounts of perchlorate can
affect thyroid function. The thyroid helps set the body's
metabolism. Thyroid problems can impact fetal and infant brain
development.

(Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)