BARTOW, Fla. — January 9, 2026 — Florida officials on Friday released the results of a statewide survey of infant formula products, revealing elevated levels of heavy metals in the majority of formulas tested. The findings were released as part of the Healthy Florida First initiative, which focuses on transparency and nutritional safety for families.
Gov. Ron DeSantis, First Lady Casey DeSantis and State Surgeon General Joseph Ladapo announced the results in Bartow, emphasizing that the testing effort is aimed at providing parents with clearer information about the products they rely on.
According to the Florida Department of Health, 24 commonly sold infant formula products in the state were tested. Sixteen of the cases showed elevated levels of heavy metals, including mercury, which officials said could indicate broader problems in manufacturing or raw material sourcing.
“The Florida Department of Health tested 24 widely available infant formula products in Florida and found elevated concentrations of mercury and other heavy metals in 16 products, pointing to systemic issues in sourcing or manufacturing,” Governor DeSantis said. He added that state officials are working with federal partners “to hold accountable and give families more options.”
As part of this response, DeSantis said families enrolled in the Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program will soon be able to choose from a wider selection of infant formula brands. He credited federal adjustments by Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr. for allowing for greater product choice.
First Lady Casey DeSantis said the findings support the need for greater transparency. “Families deserve full transparency and truth, especially when it comes to products marketed to young children,” she said. “That’s why the Commission under the Healthy Florida First Initiative is demanding accountability and putting parents first.”
Surgeon General Dr. Joseph Ladapo said this testing effort is an important step toward protecting public health. “The food testing and focus on nutrition in place is essential to ensure Floridians have the information they need to make healthy choices for themselves and their families,” he said.
State officials said the testing is part of a broader effort to assess food safety and provide accurate information to parents. The Healthy Florida First Initiative frames this effort as a way to increase oversight of infant products and ensure manufacturer accountability.
