Contaminants and Natural Toxicants Subcommittee Meeting

Enterobacter sakazakii Contamination in Powdered Infant Formula

March 18-19, 2003

DRAFT

CHARGE AND QUESTIONS

Charge 1: Characterize the infants at risk

(1) Given available information on E. sakazakii and powdered infant formula, is there a risk? If so, identify the populations of infants at risk: identify infants at risk including consideration of facts such as the extent to which immune status and/or general health status impact on the susceptibility of infants to E. sakazakii infections.

Charge 2: If there is a meaningful risk, how can this risk be addressed?

(1) What intervention strategies can be used in infant formula manufacturing processes and plants?

(2) Are there other intervention strategies? Include consideration of product labeling options for powdered infant formula (e.g., directions for preparation and use), and consider handling practices for the settings (hospitalized and non-hospitalized) in which powdered infant formula is prepared and consumed?

(3) Is it possible, based on available information, to specify allowable lower levels of microbial detection of E. sakazakii in powdered infant formula, and do allowable levels vary by risk characteristics of the infant?

(4) What are the critical knowledge gaps and research priorities relative to the need to address issues about the presence of E. sakazakii in powdered infant formula?