Virginia to require heavy metals testing in baby food starting Jan. 1, 2026

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) — A new Virginia law is looking to give parents some peace of mind by enforcing stricter regulations for baby food products.

Starting Jan. 1, 2026, baby food manufacturers are required to test levels of four toxic elements: lead, arsenic, mercury and cadmium. These heavy metals can occur naturally in the environment or accumulate from human activities, according to the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS).

Baby food products are defined as "foods marketed specifically for babies and children younger than two years of age, excluding infant formula," per VDACS.

Manufacturers must have their products tested for toxic heavy metals at least once a month by a proficient laboratory. Test results must be available on the website during the product's shelf life plus one month.

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Manufacturers are also required to disclose information regarding heavy metals testing on their website and via scannable QR codes on product labels.

All baby food products produced on Jan. 1, 2026, or later are required to comply with the action levels set by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This includes products that are manufactured, sold, distributed or offered for sale in Virginia in 2026, per VDACS.

Products manufactured before Jan. 1, 2026, are still allowed to be sold in the new year in order for retailers to use existing inventory.

VDACS said its food safety program will enforce the Baby Food Protection Act. The division will request test results, review product labels and respond to consumer complaints of suspected non-compliant products.

According to VDACS, many manufacturers and baby food companies in Virginia already meet the new law's requirements.

For questions regarding the Baby Food Protection Act, call the VDACS food safety program at 804-786-3520 or email foodsafety@vdacs.virginia.gov.