Microbiological Assessment of Infant Formula Prepared in Households in Kaduna State

Improper preparation and storage of infant formula is a recognized risk factor for neonatal and infant infections, with Cronobacter sakazakii and other opportunistic pathogens capable of causing severe illness in this vulnerable population. This study assessed the microbiological quality of reconstituted infant formula prepared by caregivers in selected households in Kaduna North and Kaduna South local government areas, Kaduna State, in the North West geopolitical zone of Nigeria. Samples of reconstituted infant formula were collected from 100 households using sterile containers and analyzed within two hours of collection. Total aerobic count, coliform enumeration, and specific pathogen detection including Cronobacter sakazakii, Salmonella, and Staphylococcus aureus were performed according to ISO standards. Bacterial contamination was detected in 74 percent of prepared formula samples. Coliform bacteria were found in 52 percent of samples. Staphylococcus aureus was isolated in 28 percent and Cronobacter sakazakii in 9 percent. Prolonged storage at room temperature following preparation was the strongest predictor of contamination. These findings reveal that infant formula preparation practices in Kaduna households are frequently inadequate and put infants at significant infection risk. Targeted caregiver education on safe formula preparation, prompt consumption after reconstitution, and clean water access are recommended. Keywords: infant formula, Cronobacter sakazakii, microbiological quality, Kaduna, infant infection.