First isolation of cronobacter spp (Enterobacter sakazakii) in powered baby formula in Chile

Abstract

The family Enterobacteriaceae includes agents that are commonly transmitted through food. Within this family, Cronobacter spp, is considered to be a pathogen that primarily affects newborns, which can acquire it through contaminated powdered formula.

Objective: Isolate Cronobacter spp, in a powdered milk formula produced in Chile. Material and method: In July of 2008, 80 samples were obtained from a factory in the Los Lagos Region. To isolate Cronobacter spp, the methods described in the ISO/TS 22964 specifications were used.

The samples were analyzed at the Food Laboratory at the Institute of Preventative Veterinary Medicine and the Universidad Austral de Chile. Results: Of all analyzed samples, 5% (4/80) were contaminated with Cronobacter spp, which constitutes the first report of this bacterium in Chile. Conclusion: Cronobacter spp is present in powdered baby formula produced in Chile. It's presence in this product represents a risk that is not considered in the current food safety standards in this country.