Variability and error in measurement of infant formula powder and water: an experimental study

Formula feeding is the only viable nutrition alternative for infants 0-6mos who cannot breastfeed. Among the drawbacks of formula feeding, however, is potential dilution or concentration errors in the formula during preparation that may lead to infant health issues. The present study aimed to investigate the accuracy of caregiver measurements as they prepared infant formula under multiple conditions, compared with manufacturer specifications. A diverse sample of caregivers ( = 84) participated in this cross-over experimental study. Participants hand-scooped infant formula powder and poured water to prepare 4oz. and 7oz. feedings, using both a standardized set of infant formula products and participants' own products. Linear mixed effects models were used to estimate fixed effects of target amount (4oz. versus 7oz) and products (participant versus researcher) on mean absolute percent error (MAPE) of measurement. Across all conditions MAPE was significantly greater for measuring powder than for water (9.0% vs. 4.4%;