The first detection of quaternary ammonium compounds in breast milk: Implications for early-life exposure.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Quaternary ammonium compounds (QACs), commonly used in cleaning, disinfecting, and personal care products, have recently gained worldwide attention due to the massive use of disinfectants during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, despite extensive use of these chemicals, no studies have focused on the analysis of QACs in human milk, a major route of exposure for infants.

Objective

Our objectives were to identify and measure QACs in breast milk and evaluate early-life exposure to this group of compounds for nursing infants.

Methods

Eighteen QACs, including 6 benzylalkyldimethyl ammonium compounds (BACs, with alkyl chain lengths of C8-C18), 6 dialkyldimethyl ammonium compounds (DDACs, C8-C18), and 6 alkyltrimethyl ammonium compounds (ATMACs, C8-C18), were measur

SUBMITTER: Zheng G 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9015285 | biostudies-literature | 2022 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature