Food safety is a repeated theme in the Alert and Calm – Feeding sub-domain beginning with breast milk and formula handling and storage, progressing to baby food handling, food allergens, choking hazards, and safe storage of food sent to childcare.
Labiner-Wolfe et al. (2008) have previously stated that a proportion larger than 80% of mothers reported not having received instruction on formula preparation and storage from a doctor or other health professional.
Pre-measured study formula powder and clean potable water were provided to parents with training and clear instructions on formula reconstitution, storage and feeding.
In addition, mothers who are bottle feeding learn proper formula dilution, storage, and how to use hunger and satiety cues regardless of the milk volume consumed.
The American Dietetic Association has issued guidelines for infant formula preparation, storage, and administration; these should be followed by infant caregivers in hospitals and private homes (40 ).
Manufacturer warning labels on powdered infant formula packages should stress that powdered infant formula is nonsterile and requires proper preparation, handling, and storage, and that sterile, liquid formula alternatives are available.
During the home visits, MWCs observed preparation and storage of formula and completed a household hygiene survey to assess hygienic practices.
Mothers failed to follow guidelines for sterile preparation and storage of formula, for cleansing of utensils and for avoidance of bottle feeds.
Most programs have tried to ensure safety through education of mothers on hygienic preparation and storage of formula, but the extent to which such education can ensure safety is unknown.
We found that preparation and storage of safe formula were inadequate despite the counseling and support given by the program.
