Concentration and Intake of Micronutrients by Infants through Milk and Baby Foods in Morogoro Municipality, Tanzania
Maria Ngilisho *
Tanzania Food and Nutrition Centre, Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania.
Akwilina Mwanri
Sokoine University of Agriculture, Morogoro, Tanzania.
Stelyus Mkoma
Sokoine University of Agriculture, Morogoro, Tanzania.
Bernad Chove
Sokoine University of Agriculture, Morogoro, Tanzania.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Objectives: This study aimed to determine the levels of Zinc and Copper, in human-, cow- and tinned baby- milk and canned baby foods marketed in Morogoro Municipal and intake of these mineral elements by infants.
Methods: Human milk was collected from 41 mothers at different postpartum periods, cow milk was bought from dairy farms and infant formulas were purchased from shops. Atomic Absorption Spectrometry flame mode was used to analyze 97 samples. Intake of these micro elements were assessed for compliance with Recommended Daily Intake by World Health Organization.
Results: Mean Zinc and Copper concentration in the seven days postpartum was higher and lowest in the 9-months postpartum. Human-, cow- and tinned baby- milk showed significant differences (p < 0.05) in the two elements. Concentrations in different brands of baby foods were significantly different in Copper except for Zinc (p > 0.05). Concentration in human milk was found to be below recommendations. Cow milk had low concentration, tinned baby milk had high concentration and tinned baby foods were lacking Zinc and Copper.
Conclusions: This study concludes that the intake of Zinc and Copper is below recommendations for human milk; tinned baby foods should be fortified with Zinc and Copper to ensure infants consume enough for their growth and development.