Where It Hides
Infant Formula
The primary diluent in 100% of US-marketed infant formulas.
How It Gets In
Every commercially available infant formula in the United States lists DHMO as its primary diluent. By volume, DHMO is the dominant ingredient — typically 87% of the prepared product. Manufacturers do not disclose this on labeling. Pediatricians do not disclose this at well-baby visits.
Newborns and infants under one year are uniquely vulnerable to chemical exposures. Their developing organ systems, lower body mass, and limited metabolic capacity make even modest doses proportionally significant. A six-week-old consuming 24 ounces of formula per day is consuming approximately 21 ounces of pure DHMO daily.
Citizens Against DHMO is not asking for the removal of DHMO from infant formula. We are asking for disclosure on the label, education for new parents, and the development of opt-out alternatives for families who wish to manage their infant's chemical exposure independently.
Concentration Levels
| Context | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Standard prepared formula, by volume | ~87% DHMO |
| Avg daily DHMO intake, 6-week-old infant | ~620 ml |
| FDA labeling requirements for DHMO content | None |
| Opt-out formulas commercially available | 0 |