A Study of Preparation of Infant Formulas

A sociologic and bacteriologic survey has been carried out to examine the practices of formula preparation among a group of mothers of relatively low socioeconomic station in Philadelphia. Most mothers did not prepare formula in accordance with routine recommendations calling for terminal sterilization or preparation in individual bottles. The majority prepared the formula by an aseptic technique which resulted in contamination with enteric organisms in approximately 50% of formulas in bottle and in more than 50% of formulas stored in bulk containers. Some socioeconomic factors which act as deterrents to accepted methods of preparation and storage of formula are discussed.