SPRINGFIELD – To implement safeguards preventing toxic heavy metal exposure for young children, State Senator Laura Fine outlined legislation at a press conference on Friday that would inform parents about any harmful toxins in baby food.

“When parents think they’re feeding their child nutritious baby food, and learn they might be potentially putting their child at risk, it is horrifying, ” said Fine (D-Glenview). “It is important that parents have access to information about the contents of the baby food they’re purchasing, and this measure ensures transparency between manufacturers and consumers.”

Senate Bill 73 would require manufacturers to test samples of their baby food products for toxic elements – such as arsenic, cadmium, lead and mercury – and disclose this information directly on the product’s website.

The measure also requires manufacturers to make certain information about their product publicly available on their website, including the name and level of each toxic heavy metal found in the food, the product name, UPC, and a link to the FDA’s website with information about the health risks of toxic heavy metal exposure for children. Links to this information must also be easily accessible on the products themselves, through a QR code.

“We need to support Illinois families and future parents in their effort to nurture their children – our future generations,” said Fine. “By giving parents access to critical information about the contents of their baby’s food, they can better protect their children from unnecessary exposure.”

Senate Bill 73 passed the Senate last week and awaits further action.

[VIDEO] – Link: https://youtu.be/HXguhfNH4JQ?si=W3uWP5KB-bpdYlld