Introduction
Breastfeeding brings your infants many health benefits, but we understand that it is sometimes not possible to breastfeed exclusively, and that’s where infant formula comes in.
Manufactured to simulate human milk, infant formula provides protein that generally comes from cow’s milk, goat’s milk or soybean. While they are an alternative for breastmilk, powdered infant formula may not be completely free from germs.
Infant formula can be contaminated by a bacteria called
Cronobacter. While infection by
Cronobacter is rare, it can be fatal to newborns.
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What is Cronobacter? Why is it a concern?
Cronobacter is a type of bacteria that can survive in dry environments, such as powdered infant formula, for months.
The bacteria is especially dangerous for people with weak immune systems, including newborns. Infants less than four weeks old, born prematurely or with compromised immunity are especially susceptible to Cronobacter infection.
Cronobacter infection can lead to fatal diseases like meningitis, the swelling of the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord. It can also cause sepsis, an overreaction to infection that can lead to tissue and organ damage.
Cronobacter can be killed by heat. Experts recommend using hot water of at least 70°C to prepare the infant formula as this will kill the bacteria present.
How does Cronobacter get into powdered infant formula?
Cronobacter can live on contaminated surfaces in the manufacturing establishment, at home, contaminated raw materials, water or utensils.
During production, Cronobacter contamination can be due to poor manufacturing practices such as the infant formula touching a contaminated surface.
Cronobacter contamination can occur at home too. Improper storage, placing of lids or scoops on contaminated surfaces or using contaminated bottles can cause Cronobacter contamination.
How does SFA ensure infant formula is safe for consumption?
SFA ensures both imported and locally-manufactured infant formula meet safety requirements through inspection, surveillance, and sampling.
Imported infant formula must be accompanied by documentary proof that they were manufactured in a factory regulated by overseas food safety authorities and a health certificate attesting that the formula has been pasteurised. The importer must also provide laboratory test reports every six months to show that the infant formula is safe.
About the Author
Herman Teo is a Senior Scientist from the Risk Assessment and Communications Department of the National Centre for Food Science. With a Masters in Food Science and Human Nutrition from the National University of Singapore, his recent work includes the regulatory framework for insects for food and feed, and examining emerging food processing risks.