HOBOKEN, N.J.—Wheat-based infant follow-on formulas are better reconstituted with fruit juice and should be stored in the fridge at 4 degrees Celsius to prevent growth of Cronobacter species meningitis bacteria, according to research published Jan. 7 in the Society for Applied Microbiology journal, Letters in Applied Microbiology.
Cronobacter is a recently defined genus of bacteria previously was known as Enterobacter sakazakii. Cronobacter species have been frequently isolated from the environment and various food products including infant formula. These bacteria have been associated with infant meningitis, enteritis and septicaemia.
These bacteria will grow at 25 degrees Celsius or 37 degrees Celsius, but less so when the formula is made up using apple or grape juice than when made up using water or milk, researchers said.