Cronobacter (Enterobacter) sakazakii Proficiency Testing Scheme

C sakazakii found in powdered infant formula is associated with outbreaks of severe disease and fatality in neonates and babies.

C sakazakii, as a member of the Enterobacteriaceae group, is susceptible to heat and therefore does not survive the production processes involved in manufacture of formula. However it is widespread in the environment and can cause post process contamination either from heat sensitive additives, such as micronutrients from the general factory environment, or during reconstitution of the powder prior to use. Subsequent incorrect handling of the rehydrated feed can result in sickness.

Cronobacter sakazakii Schedule

Samples are dispatched in April and October. Participants are given up to two weeks to examine the samples and return results.

For on-line data entry please go to Global Proficiency's Virtual Proficiency

Cronobacter sakazakii Sample Description

Samples are offered as a three-sample set (freeze-dried vials) with an accompanying infant formula matrix, incorporating a combination of organisms within the samples including challenges for differentiating C. sakazakii from Enterobacter cloacae, and addition of other contaminant organisms. 

Test method options available within the Cronobacter sakazakii Pathogen programme include:

Tests under investigation for offer in the future include:

Further tests may be made available upon request, depending on the number of interested participants.