Enterobacter Sakazakii and Other Microorganisms in Powdered Infant Formula

Consistent with the need to provide safe feeding for all infants, FAO and WHO jointly convened an expert meeting on Enterobacter sakazakii and other microorganisms in powdered infant formula (Geneva, 2 to 5 February 2004). The workshop was organized in response to a specific request to FAO/WHO for scientific advice from the Codex Committee on Food Hygiene to provide input for the revision of the Recommended International Code of Hygienic Practice for Foods for Infants and Children. After reviewing the available scientific information, the expert meeting concluded that intrinsic contamination of powdered infant formula with Enterobacter sakazakii and Salmonella has been a cause of infection and illness in infants, including severe disease which can lead to serious developmental sequelae and death. This report, co-published with WHO, looks at a range of control strategies during both manufacture and subsequent use of powdered infant formula that may be implemented to minimize the risk.