Agriculture Department moves to ban additives DHA and ARA from organic infant formula

USDA moves to ban additives from organic formula

WASHINGTON — The Agriculture Department is moving to ban two synthetic additives from organic baby formula, overturning a Bush administration decision to allow them.

The USDA said Tuesday that the department incorrectly interpreted Food and Drug Administration guidelines that appeared to allow the additives, omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids also known as DHA and ARA, respectively, to be added to formula.

A Wisconsin organic advocacy group had filed a complaint about the additives because they are extracted using a chemical that is banned in organic production. The USDA is not saying they are unsafe.

Many companies have added DHA and ARA to their infant formulas in recent years, saying they improve brain development and eyesight in babies.

THIS IS A BREAKING NEWS UPDATE. Check back soon for further information. AP’s earlier story is below.

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Agriculture Department is moving to ban two synthetic additives from organic baby formula, overturning a Bush administration decision to allow them.

The USDA said Tuesday that the department incorrectly interpreted Food and Drug Administration guidelines that appeared to allow the additives, omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids also known as DHA and ARA, respectively, to be added to formula.

A Wisconsin organic advocacy group had filed a complaint about the additives because they are extracted using a chemical that is banned in organic production. The USDA is not saying they are unsafe.

Many companies have added DHA and ARA to their infant formulas in recent years, saying they improve brain development and eyesight in babies.