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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.

Journal of Applied Microbiology
|October 27, 2025
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.
Keywords:
Bacillusantimicrobial resistancefood microbiologyfood safetymicrobial contamination

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