Conference Room Document 14 English only

FAO/WHO Regional Conference on Food Safety for Asia and Pacific

Seremban, Malaysia, 24-27 May 2004

Background information for the seminar and workshop
Enterobacter sakazakii in Powdered Infant Formula:
Current Updates and Issues

(A side event (co-organized by ILSI Southeast Asia Region) at the
FAO/WHO Regional Conference on Food Safety for Asia and the Pacific)

9.00–13.15 hours, 26 May 2004

Several outbreaks of Enterobacter sakazakii infections among infants, primarily neonates fed milk-based, powdered infant formula have highlighted the risk associated with this microorganism and the importance of scientific knowledge, updates and information sharing to address this risk. The Joint FAO/WHO Workshop on Enterobacter sakazakii and other Microorganisms in Powdered Infant Formula held in Geneva, Switzerland in February 2004 recognized the need for increased understanding and awareness of the species and its life-threatening consequences.

While E. sakazakii can cause disease in all age groups, infants – in particular, low birth weight, premature, and immuno-compromised infants – are those at higher risk of infection. As developing countries may have a higher proportion of such infants, this issue may impact a greater number of individuals. Powdered infant formula has been identified as the main source or vehicle of such E. sakazakii–related infections and mortality in many of the reported cases, although implicated products were generally in conformance with the microbiological requirements of the current Codex Code of Hygienic Practices for Foods for Infants and Children.

It is important to note that contamination from the environment could also occur during reconstitution of powdered infant formula. Good hygienic practices during the reconstitution of powdered infant formula, rapid cooling of the prepared formula and minimizing the time-lapse between preparations and feeding times are critical to reduce E. sakazakii contamination. As caregivers play the pivotal role in both preparation and possible contamination routes, continuous education and awareness of hygienic practices are called upon to minimize potential contamination and growth during preparation and prior to consumption.

ILSI Southeast Asia Region, working in conjunction with FAO/WHO at the conference, aims to increase the awareness of E. sakazakii by facilitating the exchange of science-based information in the capacity building efforts related to Microbial Risk Assessment in the region. In addition, current studies, identification of data and future research gaps will be discussed for input and future action.