Infant formula milk shows microbiological contaminants that are not removed using recommended preparation methods

Siân Cairns1, Deirdre Gilpin2, Simon J S Cameron1

  • 1School of Biological Sciences, Institute for Global Food Security, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, BT9 5DL, United Kingdom.

PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Microbial analysis of powdered infant formula (PIF) reveals that preparation methods, including at-home preparation machines (APHM), may not eliminate all contaminants. Some bacteria, like Bacillus cereus, can survive high temperatures, posing a potential risk to infant health.

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Infant Nutrition
  • Food Safety

Background:

  • Mandated microbiological testing for powdered infant formula (PIF) may not fully capture the microbial landscape.
  • Understanding persistent microorganisms is crucial for infant health and microbiome development.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To identify the microbial load and taxonomy persisting after PIF preparation using standard and at-home preparation machine (APHM) methods.
  • To assess the effectiveness of recommended preparation temperatures against microbial contaminants.

Main Methods:

  • PIF samples from UK commercial suppliers were prepared using sterile 70°C water, sterile room temperature water, or an APHM.
  • Microbial analysis involved plating on Tryptic soy agar and Sabourhaud dextrose agar, total aerobic counts, and MALDI-ToF mass spectrometry for isolate identification.

Main Results:

  • Microbial populations differed significantly based on preparation method, with APHM-prepared formulas showing unique microbial recoveries.
  • Four PIFs exhibited significant microbial differences based on preparation method.
  • Potential pathogens, including antibiotic-resistant Bacillus cereus, were isolated, with B. cereus demonstrating heat resistance above 70°C.

Conclusions:

  • Current PIF preparation guidelines may not eliminate all microbial contaminants, including opportunistic pathogens.
  • Identified pathogens appear to be environmental contaminants, representing an underappreciated concern for infant microbiome development.

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