Sumber: http://www.babymilk.com/safety/esakazakii_background.htm
ISDI takes very seriously the reports identifying powdered infant formula as a source and vehicle for E. sakazakii(1) infections. Reported cases of E. sakazakii infection in which powdered infant formula was identified as a source are uncommon and have occurred mainly in hospitalised, pre-term and very low-birth weight infants; nevertheless they were serious episodes.
About E. sakazakii
- E. sakazakii is a vegetative microorganism belonging to the family of the Enterobacteriaceae. It is an opportunistic pathogen widely found in the environment.
- During many years the only published data on the isolation of E. sakazakii were cases of neonatal meningitis or necrotizing enterocolitis related to powdered infant formulae. This led to the establishment of a causal link. In some later cases the organism was isolated on utensils such as mixers used in bottle kitchens. Even though in some cases E. sakazakii could not be isolated from the infant formulae, a causal relationship was assumed.
- It is, however, only very recently that information on the widespread occurrence of E. sakazakii has become available. Recent publications have demonstrated that this microorganism can be found in a wide variety of foods, water and environments including homes and hospitals.
- The E. sakazakii has also been isolated in hospitals from clinical samples taken from adults. A recent article reported the presence of E. sakazakii in mother's milk stored in a milk bank.
- As a widespread bacteria, E. sakazakii can also be found in infant food manufacturing environments and this is usually the source of its possible presence in the infant formula powder. In general, the very low level of E. sakazakii in powdered infant formula, or contamination through preparation equipment does not result in adverse effects unless the growth of E. sakazakii bacteria is allowed through improper handling and storage.
- Contrary to common belief, E. sakazakii is a frequently found, ubiquitous microorganism. Further research in this field is continuing and is expected to provide additional information on the widespread distribution of this organism and contribute to the better understanding on exposure.
How does E. sakazakii behave? Is it heat-resistant?
- E. sakazakii grows very rapidly in reconstituted infant formulae kept at room temperature. It is particularly well adapted to growth at temperatures around 37 – 44°C.
- Certain strains show an increased tolerance and resistance to temperatures around 50 – 60°C. In different publications, this characteristic has been referred to as “thermo-tolerance”, and has lead to the misunderstanding that this microorganism is heat-resistant.
- As shown in different publications, E. sakazakii is not heat-resistant and is readily killed at temperatures above 60°C, as applied in industrial processes, e.g. pasteurisation. This fact is acknowledged by governmental agencies such as the US-FDA and is not a point of debate among experts.
