NCT calls for an end to inaccurate information on bottle milk preparation
The NCT is calling on formula milk manufacturers to update their information on formula milk preparation so it is clear, comprehensive and mirrors government guidelines. The leading parent information charity is concerned that current information is inaccurate and confusing. The NCT has also produced a new photo factsheet ‘Using infant formula: your questions answered’ to provide parents with correct information.
Advice provided on formula tins, on company websites and through company ‘Carelines’ on how to make up a bottle is often unclear and could lead to serious illness for the baby. The advice also contradicts guidance from the World Health Organization (WHO)¹ and the Food Standards Agency (FSA)².
Powdered formula milk is not sterile and can be contaminated with bacteria³, which could cause illness such as meningitis and septicaemia. Although illness is very rare, WHO and FSA advise making up only one bottle at a time using water at or above 70°C to kill the bacteria and minimise the risk.
In practical terms this means using the water within 30 minutes of boiling (after this time the temperature drops too low) and throwing away any unused milk.
In fact, formula made with water at 50°C ‘generally results in the greatest increase in risk’, according to WHO, unless it is consumed immediately, because it encourages the growth of bacteria rather than killing them.¹