Microbiological Screening of Donor Human Milk

Area of Science:

• Neonatal nutrition
• Microbiology
• Public health

Background:

• Mother's own milk is optimal for term and preterm infants, offering protection against infections and long-term diseases.
• Human milk benefits are linked to its microbiota and oligosaccharides, influencing infant gut health.
• Donor human milk is an alternative, but processing diminishes its antimicrobial properties, increasing infection risk.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the literature on microbiological testing of donor human milk.
• To provide evidence-based recommendations for donor human milk microbiological screening.
• To address the lack of consensus on guidelines for donor milk testing.

Main Methods:

• Literature review on microbiological testing of donor human milk.
• Analysis of existing guidelines for donor milk screening.
• Synthesis of evidence to formulate recommendations.

Main Results:

• Significant variation exists in current guidelines for donor human milk microbiological testing.
• Pasteurization reduces antimicrobial activity in donor milk, necessitating safety measures.
• Microbiological screening can enhance the safety of donor human milk for preterm infants.

Conclusions:

• Evidence-based recommendations for donor human milk microbiological testing are needed.
• Standardized screening protocols are essential to ensure the safety of donor milk for vulnerable infants.
• Further research and consensus are required to establish optimal testing strategies.