Estimation of the Physicochemical properties in powder Infant formula available in Libyan

Abstract

Proper nutrition is essential for promoting an infant's growth and development throughout their first year.  Since infants are limited in their food choices, the absence or insufficiency of essential nutrients can impair the body's ability to function optimally. Additionally, the presence of unnecessary components or inappropriate nutrient levels may disrupt physiological processes and metabolic functions(1).  This study aimed to assess infant milk formula based on some of its physical characteristics and vitamin E level, comparing results with international standards. Ten samples (0-6 months) were collected from Libyan markets and then analyzed to know the pH and density by BOECO Ultrasonic Milk Analyzer LAC-SP , Titratable acidity (TA) was measured using titrimetric method, whereas high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) was used to measure the vitamin E content. The study's findings indicated that pH values in the range of 6.00 to 6.70 were within the normal range except IV, V, VI, and VIII formulas were lower than the normal range, density from 1.0025% to 1.0028% and titratable acidity from 0.12% to 0.25% were within the permissible range. Vitamin E contents from 0.44 to 6.95 mg/100 g within the permissible limits of international standards except I and VII formulas had low contents.