Microbiological quality of products used in enteral feeds

Abstract

The microbiological quality of 19 commonly used nasogastric feeds and feed ingredients was determined. Thirteen of the products yielded no viable micro-organisms while six, all of which were powders containing milk or whey proteins, gave aerobic viable counts from 50–3000 organisms g −1. Possible microbial limits for enterai feeds are discussed with reference to those already suggested for special dietary products, infant formulas and non-sterile pharmaceuticals.