Enterobacter sakazakii:: biological properties and significance in dried infant milk formula (IMF) powder

Enterobacter sakazakii is an emerging opportunistic pathogen associated with rare but life-threatening cases of meningitis, necrotizing enterocolitis and sepsis in premature infants. The bacterium has been isolated at low levels from dried infant milk formulas and is a cause of concern to all manufacturers. The threat posed by E. sakazakii is further compounded by a paucity of knowledge in key areas, specifically its ecology and physiology. This organism now represents a serious challenge to all those involved in the manufacture of infant formula products.