Baby Food Labeling - Statement Regarding Toxic Heavy Metal Testing - Terminology

HB 443 changes the terminology used on baby food labels from "toxic heavy metal" to "toxic element" for arsenic, cadmium, lead, and mercury. It requires manufacturers to test baby food (for children under age 2) monthly using accredited labs and publicly post test results on their websites starting January 1, 2026. Labels must include a scannable QR code linking to these results and FDA information about health effects. This bill directly affects baby food manufacturers selling in Maryland, focusing on clearer labeling of existing testing requirements without establishing new safety limits.