Prinova flags silicon dioxide nanoparticle risks in infant formulas

04 Jun 2020 --- A white paper from Prinova has shed light on the potential dangers of silicon dioxide nanoparticles, which are often used in infant nutrition premixes. Mounting research about the possible risks of silicon dioxide has led to increased concerns among consumers and regulatory agencies. In response, the company has developed a range of silicon dioxide-free infant nutrition premixes that still provide vitamins, minerals and amino acids.

“While all of Prinova’s premixes are now free from silicon-dioxide, some [other companies’] formulas use the ingredient as an anti-caking agent in fat-soluble powder form. Our silicon-dioxide-free range launched this year. We bring over 20 years of experience to the market for our dry premixes,” Xavier Pollono, Prinova’s Sales Director for Europe and APAC, tells NutritionInsight. 

Prinova points to research indicating that infants may be particularly susceptible to the potential health consequences of silicon dioxide nanoparticles. Notably, nanoparticles could be toxic to infants at levels that have no negative effects on adults. 

Nanoparticles have a width of no more than ten atoms, which makes them more likely than larger particles to enter cells, tissues and organs. Once inside the body, nanoparticles have unconstrained access to the brain, liver, kidneys, spleen and lungs once inside the body, according to Prinova. Additionally, clinical studies suggest silicon dioxide nanoparticles could induce severe pathological consequences in the developing brain.

Prinova details how in 2018, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) re-evaluated the use of silicon dioxide as a food additive (E551), warning that it “cannot be totally excluded that some aggregates of primary particles could be smaller than 100 nm in size.” EFSA thus recommended that the European Commission consider revising the EU specifications to limit the percentage of any nanoparticles in E551. This followed research investigating how nanoparticles can affect the immune system of the digestive tract.

“Studies have raised concerns about silicon dioxide nanoparticles’ effect on health, with infants feared to be especially vulnerable. As regulators and parents become more aware of the risks, manufacturers have every reason to ensure their infant nutrition products are safe. Prinova offers custom dry blends for infant formulas, follow-on milks and other fortified foods that are completely free from silicon dioxide, providing a solution that consumers can trust,” details Polano. 

The company’s premix uses ultrafine particles to maintain flow properties when creating powdered forms of fat-soluble vitamins as well as certain minerals and amino acids. These vitamins include vitamins E, D3, K1 and A Acetate. Additionally, Prinova offers standalone versions of vitamins E, D3 and K1 without silicon acetate. 

The infant nutrition market has been busy, with DSM launching microbial DHA and ARA powders in April. Last month, Jennewein Biotechnology’s norovirus research program revealed that human milk oligosaccharides may inhibit the binding of noroviruses to human receptors. However, a report from the World Health Organization (WHO) called for new legal measures to prohibit the promotion of breast milk substitutes to health workers and in health facilities amid COVID-19. 

By Katherine Durrell