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Enterobacter sakazakii: a coliform of increased concern to infant health

Joshua B Gurtler1, Jeffrey L Kornacki, Larry R Beuchat

  • 1Center for Food Safety and Department of Food Science and Technology, University of Georgia, 1109 Experiment Street, Griffin, GA 30223-1797, USA.

International Journal of Food Microbiology
|July 26, 2005
PubMed

Insights

Enterobacter sakazakii causes neonatal meningitis, often linked to infant formula. Research focuses on controlling this pathogen in formula and hospital settings to protect vulnerable infants.

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Public Health
  • Food Safety

Background:

  • Enterobacter sakazakii (E. sakazakii) has been linked to neonatal meningitis since 1961.
  • Outbreaks in neonates, particularly those in intensive care fed powdered infant formula, have raised public health concerns.
  • Powdered infant formula is a recognized source of E. sakazakii contamination.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review advances in understanding and controlling Enterobacter sakazakii in infant formula.
  • To consolidate information on taxonomy, detection, resistance, and pathogenicity of E. sakazakii.
  • To discuss risk management strategies for preventing E. sakazakii infections.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of scientific publications on E. sakazakii.
  • Summary of outbreaks and case reports in neonates and adults.
  • Analysis of E. sakazakii's environmental tolerance and behavior in infant formula.

Main Results:

  • Advances in E. sakazakii taxonomy, detection, isolation, and typing methods are presented.
  • Information on antibiotic resistance, clinical etiology, and pathogenicity is reviewed.
  • Presence of E. sakazakii in clinical settings, environment, food, and processing facilities is documented.

Conclusions:

  • Effective control of E. sakazakii in infant formula and preparation areas is crucial for neonate safety.
  • Further research is needed to address knowledge gaps in pathogen control and risk management.
  • Integrated strategies are required to eliminate or minimize E. sakazakii hazards.

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