Research Information System
Fabad Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, vol.34, no.3, pp.153-165, 2009 (Refereed Journals of Other Institutions)
Several contaminants, which can come from different stages of production and storage, may be present in infant formulas and baby foods. Dry infant formula has been considered as a good medium for bacterial growth of Enterobacter sakazakii. The presence of Enterobacter sakazakii in infant formulas is a significant public health problem as the bacterium has putative virulence factors and can cause fatal infections like enterocolitis and meningitis. Serious measures should be taken to minimize bacterial contamination of powdered products especially by the manufacturers and all caregivers should continuously be educated to reduce the risk of contaminated infant food. This review will focus on the biological contaminant "Enterobacter sakazakii", the toxicity caused by its virulence factors and solutions for the reduction of contamination by this particular bacterium.