Water for infant formula
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Water for Infant Formula: Safety and Preparation Guidelines
Importance of Water Temperature in Infant Formula Preparation
The preparation of powdered infant formula (PIF) requires careful attention to water temperature to ensure safety. The World Health Organization (WHO) and the United Kingdom National Health Service (UK NHS) recommend using water at a temperature of at least 70°C to reconstitute PIF. This temperature is crucial for eliminating harmful bacteria such as Cronobacter sakazakii, which can cause severe infections in infants . Studies have shown that many PIF preparation machines fail to reach this temperature, with only 14.9% of machines producing water at or above 70°C compared to 78.3% of kettle users. This discrepancy highlights the need for parents to be aware of the potential risks and to follow guidelines strictly.
Risks of Using Tap Water for Infant Formula
In France, tap water is commonly used to prepare infant formula, but it may contain microbiological and chemical hazards such as Cryptosporidium and arsenic. A study quantified the risks associated with using un-boiled tap water, revealing significant health concerns. The use of un-boiled tap water led to a high number of Disability Adjusted Life Years (DALYs) due to Cryptosporidium-related diarrhea and a smaller but notable risk of cancer from arsenic exposure. Boiling tap water can mitigate the risk from Cryptosporidium, but stringent monitoring of water quality remains essential.
Burn Injuries from Water Heating
While heating water to the recommended temperature is necessary for safety, it also poses a risk of burn injuries. Data from emergency departments indicated that there were several cases of burn injuries among infants related to PIF water heating, with some requiring hospitalization. This underscores the need for careful handling and preparation to balance the risks of bacterial contamination and burn injuries.
Bottled Water for Infant Formula
The use of bottled water for preparing infant formula is often discouraged by healthcare professionals due to concerns about its chemical composition. However, a review of bottled water available in supermarkets found that these concerns might be unfounded. The study suggested that the NHS should provide clearer guidance and education to healthcare professionals to prevent confusion and ensure the safety of infants when bottled water is the only available option.
Fluoride Content in Water Used for Infant Formula
The fluoride content in water used to prepare infant formula is another critical consideration. High fluoride levels can lead to dental fluorosis in infants. A study found that formulas prepared with fluoridated drinking water had significantly higher fluoride concentrations compared to those prepared with deionized or bottled mineral water. To limit fluoride intake, it is recommended to avoid using fluoridated water for infant formula preparation.
Conclusion
The preparation of infant formula requires meticulous attention to water quality and temperature to ensure the safety and health of infants. Parents should use water heated to at least 70°C to eliminate harmful bacteria and should be cautious of the risks associated with both tap and bottled water. Clear guidelines and education from healthcare professionals are essential to help parents make informed decisions and prevent potential health risks.
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