Maintain a clean environment

Oct 13, 2025 by wbrum.org 74 views

An Overview of the Amount of Bacterial Growth in Powdered Formula Milk Brewed Using Boiling Water and Dispenser Hot Water: A Study on the Length of Brewing

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Description of the Growth of Bacteria in Powdered Formula Milk: Boiling Water vs. Dispenser Hot Water

Baby formula milk is an essential alternative to breast milk for babies after six months of age, providing vital nutrition for their growth and development. Although formula milk in powder form is designed to meet nutritional needs, it is not fully sterile and has the potential to be contaminated by pathogenic bacteria. In this study, we investigate the growth of bacteria in powdered formula milk brewed using boiling water compared to hot water from the dispenser, focusing on the duration of brewing.

Background

Formula milk that is not sterile can pose significant health risks for babies. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends using water with a minimum temperature of 70˚C for brewing formula milk, with a maximum storage time limit of two hours. This process aims to reduce the risk of bacterial growth. The use of boiling water and hot water from the dispenser are two common methods in the preparation of formula milk. However, do these two methods have different effects on bacterial growth?

Research Methods

This research was conducted using a descriptive approach and cross-sectional design. We tested a box of baby formula milk in powder form, brewed with two types of water: boiling water and hot water from the dispenser. Formula milk samples were taken every 30 minutes for three hours to analyze the growth of bacteria using the Total Plate Count (TPC) test. Identification of bacteria was done through gram staining and biochemical reactions.

Research Results

The results showed that the growth of bacteria in formula milk brewed with boiling water began to be detected after 60 minutes, with the number of bacteria reaching 5.1 × 10^4 cfu/g after 180 minutes. Conversely, the growth of bacteria in milk brewed with hot water from the dispenser was seen since the beginning of brewing and increased dramatically to more than 100 × 10^4 CFU/g after 180 minutes. Identification of the dominant bacteria in this study was Bacillus subtilis.

Analysis and Explanation

From these results, it can be concluded that dispenser hot water not only supports faster bacterial growth but also facilitates an increase in the number of significant bacterial colonies compared to boiling water. This shows that although the hot water temperature of the dispenser may be quite high, uncontrolled storage time can be a major factor that increases the risk of contamination.

Formula milk brewed using boiling water has a better inhibitory effect on bacterial growth in the early stages, making it a safer choice for preparing formula milk for babies. However, it is essential to remember that all preparation processes must be carried out in a clean environment and with the right storage time to minimize health risks.

Conclusion

This study confirms the importance of paying attention to the formula milk brewing method to maintain the health of the baby. Using boiling water is more recommended than hot water from the dispenser in an effort to reduce the growth of bacteria in powdered formula milk. It is crucial for parents and caregivers to always follow the WHO guidelines for the health and well-being of their babies.

Recommendations

Based on the findings of this study, the following recommendations are made:

Use boiling water: Boiling water is more effective in reducing bacterial growth in powdered formula milk compared to hot water from the dispenser.
Follow WHO guidelines: Parents and caregivers should always follow the WHO guidelines for brewing formula milk, including using water with a minimum temperature of 70˚C and a maximum storage time limit of two hours.
Maintain a clean environment: All preparation processes should be carried out in a clean environment to minimize health risks.
Monitor storage time: Uncontrolled storage time can increase the risk of contamination, so it is essential to monitor and control the storage time of formula milk.

By following these recommendations, parents and caregivers can help reduce the risk of bacterial growth in powdered formula milk and ensure the health and well-being of their babies.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Bacterial Growth in Powdered Formula Milk

Q: What is the main cause of bacterial growth in powdered formula milk?

A: The main cause of bacterial growth in powdered formula milk is the presence of pathogenic bacteria in the formula itself or in the water used to brew it. Uncontrolled storage time and poor hygiene practices can also contribute to bacterial growth.

Q: How can I prevent bacterial growth in powdered formula milk?

A: To prevent bacterial growth in powdered formula milk, it is essential to follow the WHO guidelines for brewing formula milk, including using water with a minimum temperature of 70˚C and a maximum storage time limit of two hours. Additionally, maintain a clean environment and monitor storage time to minimize health risks.

Q: What is the difference between boiling water and hot water from the dispenser in terms of bacterial growth?

A: The results of this study show that boiling water is more effective in reducing bacterial growth in powdered formula milk compared to hot water from the dispenser. Boiling water can kill bacteria, while hot water from the dispenser may not be hot enough to kill bacteria, allowing them to grow and multiply.

Q: How long does it take for bacteria to grow in powdered formula milk?

A: The results of this study show that bacteria can start to grow in powdered formula milk as early as 60 minutes after brewing with boiling water. However, with hot water from the dispenser, bacteria can start to grow from the beginning of brewing and increase dramatically to more than 100 × 10^4 CFU/g after 180 minutes.

Q: What type of bacteria is most commonly found in powdered formula milk?

A: The results of this study show that Bacillus subtilis is the dominant bacteria found in powdered formula milk. However, other types of bacteria, such as Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli, can also be present in powdered formula milk.

Q: Can I still use powdered formula milk if it has been contaminated with bacteria?

A: No, it is not recommended to use powdered formula milk if it has been contaminated with bacteria. Bacteria can cause serious health problems in babies, including diarrhea, vomiting, and even life-threatening infections. If you suspect that your powdered formula milk has been contaminated with bacteria, it is best to discard it and use a new, sterile formula.

Q: How can I ensure that my powdered formula milk is sterile?

A: To ensure that your powdered formula milk is sterile, follow the manufacturer's instructions for preparation and storage. Use a clean and sterile environment to prepare the formula, and store it in a clean and airtight container. Additionally, check the expiration date of the formula and discard it if it has expired.

Q: What should I do if I suspect that my baby has been infected with bacteria from powdered formula milk?

A: If you suspect that your baby has been infected with bacteria from powdered formula milk, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of bacterial infection in babies can include diarrhea, vomiting, fever, and abdominal pain. Your healthcare provider can diagnose the infection and provide treatment to help your baby recover.

By following these guidelines and recommendations, you can help ensure the health and well-being of your baby and prevent bacterial growth in powdered formula milk.