Formula Feeding Although breast milk is the best possible nutrition your baby can receive, you may choose to use infant formula instead of or in combination with breast milk. It is important that you know how to safely prepare, handle, store and feed infant formula. Powder formula may contain harmful bacteria that can make your baby sick, the steps below outline the safest way to prepare infant feedings.
Ready to feed formula This is the easiest type of formula to prepare and can be stored at room temperature. However this can also be the most expensive. 1. Wash your hands with soap and water and dry them using a clean towel or disposable napkin. 2. Open the bottle and screw on the cap. 3. Warm to feeding temperature if desired. 4. Feed immediately or refrigerate for up to 48 hours.
Preparing powder formula 1. Clean and disinfect the area you will be using to prepare the formula. 2. Wash your hands with soap and water and dry them using a clean towel or disposable napkin. 3. Heat clean and safe water until the water comes to a rolling boil. 4. Carefully pour the appropriate amount of boiled water into a clean and sterilized feeding cup or bottle. Do not allow the water to cool to less than 158°F/ 70°C. The water should be cooled for no more than 30 minutes after boiling to prevent bacterial growth. 5. To the measured water, add the exact amount of formula as instructed on the label. Adding more or less powder than instructed could make the infant ill. 6. Taking care to avoid burns, shake or swirl the mixture gently until the contents are thoroughly mixed. 7. Immediately after preparation, quickly cool the formula to feeding temperature by holding the bottle or feeding cup under running tap water, or placing in a container of iced or cold water. Do not allow the cooling water to touch the top of the feeding cup or the lid of the bottle. 112
infant nutrition
