Analysis of the Composition of Antipiretic Syrups and Vitamin Supplements for Children in Terms of Harmful Substances Included in Them

Abstract

New medications and supplements in attractive forms and flavours for children, such as lollipops, jellies, sweets, lozenges, etc., appear on the pharmaceutical market all the time. The society perceives these products as completely safe and even desirable in maintaining good health. Meanwhile, due to their form, they contain a whole range of potentially harmful food additives. The aim of this study was to analyse the content of colourings, preservatives and flavour enhancers in medications and food supplements for children. The research material consisted of 80 randomly chosen antipiretic syrups and food supplements dedicated to children. After evaluating the collected data, it has been found that none of the 80 analysed pharmaceuticals were free from potentially harmful substances and most of them contained more than one additive hazardous to health