FSA and DH recommendations on preparation of infant formula. May 2010

The DH and FSA have published information for health professionals regarding the safe preparation of powdered infant formula feeds, based on work undertaken by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).

The EFSA panel has issued an opinion in relation to the microbiological risks in powdered infant and follow-on formulae. The panel concluded that salmonella and Enterobacter sakazakii are the micro-organisms of greatest concern. Although infections with these micro-organisms from formula milk are rare, the risk can be reduced by following guidelines on preparation and storage. 

The Department of Health and the Food Standards Agency advise all health professionals, particularly nurses, midwives and health visitors to update the information they are giving to parents and carers about the preparation of formula feeds, particularly that they advise making one bottle at a time, and that feeds are made up using water that is greater than 70 degrees centigrade (in practice this means using freshly boiled water that bas been left to cool for half an hour). 

Basic hygiene principles such as washing hands and work surfaces carefully should always be followed. 

Further information from the Food Standards Agency and Department of Health can be downloaded here: 

Guidance for health professionals on safe preparation, storage and handling of powdered infant formula