5 Standards for Identifying Authentic Infant Formula
First, Test by Touch: Rub the formula packaging bag with your fingers. Authentic formula has a fine texture and makes a "squeaky" sound. In contrast, counterfeit formula, often containing ingredients like powdered sugar or glucose, has coarser particles and makes a "grainy" flowing sound.
Second, Observe the Color: Authentic formula has a natural milky yellow color. Counterfeit formula is often whiter, and upon close inspection, may show crystals and a shiny luster, or appear bleached white, or have other unnatural colors.
Third, Smell the Aroma: Upon opening the package, authentic formula has the unique milky fragrance of cow's milk. Counterfeit formula has little to no milky aroma.
Fourth, Taste It: Place a small amount of formula in your mouth. Authentic formula is fine and slightly sticky, easily adhering to the teeth, tongue, and palate. It dissolves relatively quickly and has no sweet taste of sugar (except for formula with added sugar). Counterfeit formula dissolves quickly in the mouth, does not stick to the teeth, and has a strong sweet taste.
Fifth, Check the Dissolution Rate: Put formula in a cup and dissolve it with cold water. Authentic formula requires stirring to dissolve into a milky, cloudy liquid. Counterfeit formula dissolves on its own without stirring or forms sediment. When dissolved with hot water, authentic formula forms floating solids that may stick to a spoon during the initial stirring. Adulterated formula dissolves rapidly and lacks the natural aroma and color of milk.