The effect of UV-C pasteurization on bacteriostatic properties and immunological proteins of donor human milk

Milk microbiome transplantation: recolonizing donor milk with mother's own milk microbiota

Donor human milk (DHM) provides myriad nutritional and immunological benefits for preterm and low birthweight infants. However, pasteurization leaves DHM devoid of potentially beneficial milk microbiota. In the present study, we performed milk microbiome transplantation from freshly collected mother's own milk (MOM) into pasteurized DHM. Small volumes of MOM (5%, 10%, or 30% v/v) were inoculated into pasteurized DHM and incubated at 37 °C for up to 8 h. Further, we compared microbiome recolonization in UV-C-treated and Holder-pasteurized DHM, as UV-C treatment has been shown to conserve important biochemical components of DHM that are lost during Holder pasteurization. Bacterial culture and viability-coupled metataxonomic sequencing were employed to assess the effectiveness of milk microbiome transplantation. Growth of transplanted MOM bacteria occurred rapidly in recolonized DHM samples; however, a greater level of growth was observed in Holder-pasteurized DHM compared to UV-C-treated DHM, potentially due to the conserved antimicrobial properties in UV-C-treated DHM. Viability-coupled metataxonomic analysis demonstrated similarity between recolonized DHM samples and fresh MOM samples, suggesting that the milk microbiome can be successfully transplanted into pasteurized DHM. These results highlight the potential of MOM microbiota transplantation to restore the microbial composition of UV-C-treated and Holder-pasteurized DHM and enhance the nutritional and immunological benefits of DHM for preterm and vulnerable infants. KEY POINTS: • Mother's own milk microbiome can be successfully transplanted into donor human milk. • Recolonization is equally successful in UV-C-treated and Holder-pasteurized milk. • Recolonization time should be restricted due to rapid bacterial growth.

New latex agglutination assay for the determination of lactoferrin in human milk

BACKGROUND

Lactoferrin (LF) in human milk has various biological properties and contributes to the prevention of preterm birth complications. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) is one of the most commonly used methods to measure LF in human milk, but this method is time-consuming and laborious. In Japanese human milk banks, the concentration of LF in donor human milk (DHM) is measured routinely. Here, we reported a rapid, simple, and accurate method for determining LF in human milk using a new reagent based on a latex agglutination assay.

METHODS

We obtained 208 human milk pools from 148 mothers, and samples were collected before and after Holder pasteurization. Milk samples were diluted 100- or 200-fold and LF concentrations were measured by a latex agglutination assay using an automated analyzer. The reagent was validated in terms of repeatability, linearity, detection limit, recovery, and comparison with ELISA.

RESULTS

The coefficient of variation (CV) for intra-assay precision ranged from 0.6 to 5.0% in human milk with high, medium, and low LF concentrations. The linearity was also tested by serial sample dilution and was confirmed up to 16 µg/mL with a detection limit of 0.2 µg/mL. The recovery rates in a spiked recovery test were ranged from 90 to 120% at high, medium, and low concentrations of LF. Furthermore, a strong correlation was observed between LF levels determined by the latex agglutination assay and ELISA (r = 0.978, p < 0.001, n = 255). The regression equation was y = 0.991x + 0.545 (r2 = 0.974, p < 0.001). Compared with ELISA, the latex agglutination assay reduces the measurement time by 160 min and the cost by 55%.

CONCLUSIONS

The latex agglutination assay used to determine LF in human milk is rapid, simple, and accurate enough to be used routinely. Its use may contribute to the quick and easy provision of appropriate DHM to preterm infants.

High hydrostatic pressure is similar to Holder pasteurization in preserving donor milk antimicrobial activity

BACKGROUND

The microbiological safety of donor milk (DM) is commonly ensured by Holder pasteurization (HoP, 62.5 °C for 30 min) in human milk banks despite its detrimental effects on bioactive factors. We compared the antimicrobial properties of DM after Holder pasteurization treatment or High Hydrostatic Pressure processing (HHP, 350 MPa at 38 °C), a non-thermal substitute for DM sterilization.

METHODS

We assessed lactoferrin and lysozyme concentrations in raw, HHP- and HoP-treated pools of DM (n = 8). The impact of both treatments was evaluated on the growth of Escherichia coli and Group B Streptococcus in comparison with control media (n = 4). We also addressed the effect of storage of HHP treated DM over a 6-month period (n = 15).

RESULTS

HHP milk demonstrated similar concentrations of lactoferrin compared with raw milk, while it was significantly decreased by HoP. Lysozyme concentrations remained stable regardless of the condition. Although a bacteriostatic effect was observed against Escherichia coli at early timepoints, a sharp bactericidal effect was observed against Group B Streptococcus. Unlike HoP, these results were significant for HHP compared to controls. Stored DM was well and safely preserved by HHP.

CONCLUSION

Our study demonstrates that this alternative sterilization method shows promise for use with DM in human milk banks.

IMPACT

Antimicrobial activity of donor milk after High Hydrostatic Pressure treatment has not been clearly evaluated. Donor milk lactoferrin is better preserved by High Hydrostatic Pressure than conventional Holder pasteurization, while lysozyme concentration is not affected by either treatment. As with Holder pasteurization, High Hydrostatic Pressure preserves donor milk bacteriostatic activity against E. coli in addition to bactericidal activity against Group B Streptococcus. Donor milk treated by High Hydrostatic Pressure can be stored safely for 6 months.

Optimized Ultraviolet-C Processing Inactivates Pathogenic and Spoilage-Associated Bacteria while Preserving Bioactive Proteins, Vitamins, and Lipids in Human Milk

Holder pasteurization (HoP) enhances donor human milk microbiological safety but damages many bioactive milk proteins. Though ultraviolet-C irradiation (UV-C) can enhance safety while better preserving some milk proteins, it has not been optimized for dose or effect on a larger array of bioactive proteins. We determined the minimal UV-C parameters that provide >5-log reductions of relevant bacteria in human milk and how these treatments affect an array of bioactive proteins, vitamin E, and lipid oxidation. Treatment at 6000 and 12 000 J/L of UV-C resulted in >5-log reductions of all vegetative bacteria and bacterial spores, respectively. Both dosages improved retention of immunoglobulin A (IgA), IgG, IgM, lactoferrin, cathepsin D, and elastase and activities of bile-salt-stimulated lipase and lysozyme compared with HoP. These UV-C doses caused minor reductions in α-tocopherol but not γ-tocopherol and no increases in lipid oxidation products. UV-C treatment is a promising approach for donor human milk processing.

Breast milk preservation: thermal and non-thermal processes and their effect on microorganism inactivation and the content of bioactive and nutritional compounds

Human Breast Milk (HBM) is widely acknowledged as the best nutritional source for neonates. Data indicates that, in 2019, 83.2% of infants in the United States received breast milk at birth, slightly reducing to 78.6% at 1 month. Despite these encouraging early figures, exclusive breastfeeding rates sharply declined, dropping to 24.9% by 6 months. This decline is particularly pronounced when direct breastfeeding is challenging, such as in Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICU) and for working mothers. Given this, it is vital to explore alternative breast milk preservation methods. Technologies like Holder Pasteurization (HoP), High-Temperature Short-Time Pasteurization (HTST), High-Pressure Processing (HPP), UV radiation (UV), and Electric Pulses (PEF) have been introduced to conserve HBM. This review aims to enhance the understanding of preservation techniques for HBM, supporting the practice of extended exclusive breastfeeding. It explicitly addresses microbial concerns, focusing on critical pathogens like Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus, Escherichia coli, Listeria monocytogenes, and Cytomegalovirus, and explores how various preservation methods can mitigate these risks. Additionally, the review highlights the importance of retaining the functional elements of HBM, particularly its immunological components such as antibodies and enzymes like lysozyme and Bile Salt Stimulated Lipase (BSSL). The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview of the current state of HBM treatment, critically assess existing practices, identify areas needing improvement, and advocate for extended exclusive breastfeeding due to its vital role in ensuring optimal nutrition and overall health in infants.

Ecologies, synergies, and biological systems shaping human milk composition-a report from "Breastmilk Ecology: Genesis of Infant Nutrition (BEGIN)" Working Group 2

Human milk is universally recognized as the preferred food for infants during the first 6 mo of life because it provides not only essential and conditionally essential nutrients in necessary amounts but also other biologically active components that are instrumental in protecting, communicating important information to support, and promoting optimal development and growth in infants. Despite decades of research, however, the multifaceted impacts of human milk consumption on infant health are far from understood on a biological or physiological basis. Reasons for this lack of comprehensive knowledge of human milk functions are numerous, including the fact that milk components tend to be studied in isolation, although there is reason to believe that they interact. In addition, milk composition can vary greatly within an individual as well as within and among populations. The objective of this working group within the Breastmilk Ecology: Genesis of Infant Nutrition (BEGIN) Project was to provide an overview of human milk composition, factors impacting its variation, and how its components may function to coordinately nourish, protect, and communicate complex information to the recipient infant. Moreover, we discuss the ways whereby milk components might interact such that the benefits of an intact milk matrix are greater than the sum of its parts. We then apply several examples to illustrate how milk is better thought of as a biological system rather than a more simplistic "mixture" of independent components to synergistically support optimal infant health.

[Variation in the level of the biocomponents immunoglobulin A and lactoferrin in human milk after Holder pasteurization]

BACKGROUND

breast milk is the ideal food for newborns and infants, but there are factors that can prevent the practice of breastfeeding. Human milk banks (BLH) are a strategy to increase breastfeeding coverage; the donated milk is subjected to Holder pasteurization to guarantee its innocuousness, undergoing large changes in temperature and a decrease in the concentrations of biocomponents such as Immunoglobulin A (IgA) and lactoferrin (LF). This article describes the results of recent studies on the impact of Holder pasteurization on IgA and LF in human milk.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

a search for research articles related to the topic of interest was carried out in various databases and in accordance with inclusion criteria that considered the type of study, date of publication and quality of the journal.

RESULTS

the impact of Holder pasteurization on IgA and LF concentrations is not clear, given that the literature reports a variety of protocols and different results; however, the percentage reductions of both biocomponents are significant and consistent in the studies reviewed, suggesting the importance of establishing a standard protocol for their quantification.

CONCLUSIONS

Holder pasteurization guarantees the microbiological quality of the milk distributed in HMB, but affects the amount of beneficial biocomponents for the final recipient. Government entities that regulate HMBs should evaluate the possibility of using other techniques that reduce the impact on biocomponents while preserving the microbiological quality of the product.

The Results of Different Heating Temperatures on Activities of Bioactive Proteins in Human Milk

BACKGROUND

The most utilized pasteurization method in donor human milk banks is Holder pasteurization (heating 62.5 °C for 30 min). However, many bioactive proteins are heat sensitive and are inactivated.

RESEARCH AIM

To determine the results of a range of heating regimes on the activities of xanthine oxidase, lactoperoxidase and lysozyme, the concentrations of immunoglobulin A and lactoferrin, as well as bacterial inactivation.

METHOD

This prospective, cross-sectional, intervention study was designed to measure the influence of heating temperatures on bioactive components in donor human milk. Milk samples were processed at 40, 50, 55, 62.5, 75, 127 °C and the activities of the enzymes, and the concentration of immune proteins, were measured.

RESULTS

No bacterial colonies were detectable, using standard culture methods, after heating above 50 ºC. All proteins studied retained over 60% concentrations or activities when the pasteurization temperature was 50 ºC or lower, while their concentrations or activities were lost at higher temperatures. For lactoferrin, the residual concentration was above 80% when heating temperature was under 55 °C, while only 20% remained after Holder pasteurization. Both xanthine oxidase and lactoperoxidase had little residual activity when temperatures were above Holder pasteurization. Lysozyme retained a greater proportion of residual activity than other proteins, following heating at all temperatures.

CONCLUSIONS

The concentrations or activities of immune proteins and bioactive enzymes decreased when heated above 50 °C. The results of this study can be used to design temperature control guidance during alternative methods of pasteurization.

Current progress of emerging technologies in human and animals' milk processing: Retention of immune-active components and microbial safety

Human milk and commercial dairy products play a vital role in humans, as they can provide almost all essential nutrients and immune-active components for the development of children. However, how to retain more native immune-active components of milk during processing remains a big question for the dairy industry. Nonthermal technologies for milk processing are gaining increasing interest in both academic and industrial fields, as it is known that thermal processing may negatively affect the quality of milk products. Thermosensitive components, such as lactoferrin, immunoglobulins (Igs), growth factors, and hormones, are highly important for the healthy development of newborns. In addition to product quality, thermal processing also causes environmental problems, such as high energy consumption and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. This review summarizes the recent advances of UV-C, ultrasonication (US), high-pressure processing (HPP), and other emerging technologies for milk processing from the perspective of immune-active components retention and microbial safety, focusing on human, bovine, goat, camel, sheep, and donkey milk. Also, the detailed application, including the instrumental design, technical parameters, and obtained results, are discussed. Finally, future prospects and current limitations of nonthermal techniques as applied in milk processing are discussed. This review thereby describes the current state-of-the-art in nonthermal milk processing techniques and will inspire the development of such techniques for in-practice applications in milk processing.

Testing the effects of processing on donor human Milk: Analytical methods

Holder pasteurization is the current recommended method for donor human milk treatment. This method effectively eliminates most life-threatening contaminants in donor milk, but it also greatly reduces some of its biological properties. Consequently, there is a growing interest for developing novel processing methods that can ensure both microbial inactivation and a higher retention of the functional components of donor milk. Our aim was to offer a comprehensive overview of the analytical techniques available for the evaluation of such methods. To suggest an efficient workflow for the analysis of processed donor milk, a safety analytical panel as well as a nutritional value and functionality analytical panel are discussed, together with the principles, benefits, and drawbacks of the available techniques. Concluding on the suitability of a novel method requires a multifactorial approach which can be achieved by a combination of analytical targets and by using complementary assays to cross-validate the obtained results.

Effects of High-Pressure Processing, UV-C Irradiation and Thermoultrasonication on Donor Human Milk Safety and Quality

Holder pasteurization (HoP) is the current recommended treatment for donor human milk. Although this method inactivates microbial contaminants, it also negatively affects various milk components. High-pressure processing (HPP, 400, 500, and 600 MPa), ultraviolet-C irradiation (UV-C, 2,430, 3,645, and 4,863 J/L) and thermoultrasonication (TUS, 1,080 and 1,620 kJ/L) were investigated as alternatives to thermal pasteurization (HoP). We assessed the effects of these methods on microbiological safety, and on concentration and functionality of immunoglobulin A, lactoferrin, lysozyme and bile salt-stimulated lipase, with LC-MS/MS-based proteomics and activity assays. HoP, HPP, TUS, and UV-C at 4863 J/L, achieved >5-log10 microbial reduction. Native protein levels and functionality showed the highest reduction following HoP, while no significant reduction was found after less intense HPP and all UV-C treatments. Immunoglobulin A, lactoferrin, and lysozyme contents were also preserved after low intensity TUS, but bile salt-stimulated lipase activity was significantly reduced. This study demonstrated that HPP and UV-C may be considered as suitable alternatives to HoP, since they were able to ensure sufficient microbial inactivation while at the same time better preserving the bioactive components of donor human milk. In summary, our results provide valuable insights regarding the evaluation and selection of suitable processing methods for donor human milk treatment, which may replace HoP in the future.

Thermoultrasonication, ultraviolet-C irradiation, and high-pressure processing: Novel techniques to preserve insulin in donor human milk

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Donor human milk (DHM) is recommended as the first alternative for preterm infants if their mother's own milk is not available or if the quantity is not sufficient. The most commonly used technique to eliminate microbial contaminants in DHM is holder pasteurization (HoP). However, the heating process during HoP partially destroys milk bioactive factors such as insulin. Therefore, innovative techniques have been developed as alternatives to HoP. The objective of this study was to determine the effect of HoP, high-temperature-short-time (HTST), thermoultrasonication (TUS), ultraviolet-C irradiation (UV-C), and high-pressure processing (HPP) on the insulin concentration in DHM.

METHODS

Milk samples from 28 non-diabetic mothers were collected. The milk samples were aliquoted and either left untreated or treated with HoP (62.5 °C; 30 min), HTST (72 °C; 15 s), TUS (60 W; 6 min), UV-C (4863 J/L), or HPP (500 MPa; 5 min).

RESULTS

The mean insulin concentration in untreated milk was 79 ± 41 pmol/L. The mean insulin retention rate was 67% for HoP, 78% for HTST, 97% for TUS, 94% for UV-C, and 106% for HPP. The mean insulin concentration in milk treated with HoP was significantly lower compared to untreated milk (p = 0.01).

CONCLUSION

TUS, UV-C, and HPP preserve insulin in DHM. The insulin concentration in DHM is affected to a larger extent by HoP than by HTST. These results indicate that TUS, UV-C, and HPP may serve as alternatives to HoP.

25 Years of Research in Human Lactation: From Discovery to Translation

Researchers have recently called for human lactation research to be conceptualized as a biological framework where maternal and infant factors impacting human milk, in terms of composition, volume and energy content are studied along with relationships to infant growth, development and health. This approach allows for the development of evidence-based interventions that are more likely to support breastfeeding and lactation in pursuit of global breastfeeding goals. Here we summarize the seminal findings of our research programme using a biological systems approach traversing breast anatomy, milk secretion, physiology of milk removal with respect to breastfeeding and expression, milk composition and infant intake, and infant gastric emptying, culminating in the exploration of relationships with infant growth, development of body composition, and health. This approach has allowed the translation of the findings with respect to education, and clinical practice. It also sets a foundation for improved study design for future investigations in human lactation.

High Hydrostatic Pressure Treatment Ensures the Microbiological Safety of Human Milk Including Bacillus cereus and Preservation of Bioactive Proteins Including Lipase and Immuno-Proteins: A Narrative Review

Breast milk is the nutritional reference for the child and especially for the preterm infant. Breast milk is better than donated breast milk (DHM), but if breast milk is not available, DHM is distributed by the Human Milk Bank (HMB). Raw Human Milk is better than HMB milk, but it may contain dangerous germs, so it is usually milk pasteurized by a Holder treatment (62.5 °C 30 min). However, Holder does not destroy all germs, and in particular, in 7% to 14%, the spores of Bacillus cereus are found, and it also destroys the microbiota, lipase BSSL and immune proteins. Another technique, High-Temperature Short Time (HTST 72 °C, 5–15 s), has been tried, which is imperfect, does not destroy Bacillus cereus, but degrades the lipase and partially the immune proteins. Therefore, techniques that do not treat by temperature have been proposed. For more than 25 years, high hydrostatic pressure has been tried with pressures from 100 to 800 MPa. Pressures above 400 MPa can alter the immune proteins without destroying the Bacillus cereus. We propose a High Hydrostatic Pressure (HHP) with four pressure cycles ranging from 50–150 MPa to promote Bacillus cereus germination and a 350 MPa Pressure that destroys 10⁶ Bacillus cereus and retains 80–100% of lipase, lysozyme, lactoferrin and 64% of IgAs. Other HHP techniques are being tested. We propose a literature review of these techniques.

Is Lactoferrin Supplementation Beneficial for All Preterm Infants?

OBJECTIVE

 Human milk (HM) has antibacterial properties due to the presence of immune-modulators, including lactoferrin (LF). This study will determine effect(s) of HM maturation, fortification, and storage conditions on LF levels and its antibacterial properties.

STUDY DESIGN

 HM samples (n = 30) were obtained from preterm and term mothers. The LF levels were analyzed by ELISA, and the antibacterial activity was measured after inoculation with Escherichia coli.

RESULTS

 The highest level of LF in preterm HM was observed in the first week of lactation. However, storage of preterm HM at 4°C decreased LF levels significantly. Both LF levels and antibacterial activity in preterm HM was lower compared with term HM, but significantly higher than donor HM even after HM-based fortification. LF supplementation of donor HM improved its antibacterial activity.

CONCLUSION

 Preterm infants fed donor HM, formula, or stored HM at 4°C may benefits from LF supplementation to improve HM antibacterial properties.

KEY POINTS

· Milk LF levels vary with storage and maturity.. · Donor milk is deficient in LF even after adding HM-based fortification.. · Donor HM and formula fed infants may benefit from LF..

The human milk microbiome: who, what, when, where, why, and how?

Human milk (HM) contains an incredible array of microorganisms. These likely contribute to the seeding of the infant gastrointestinal microbiome, thereby influencing infant immune and metabolic development and later-life health. Given the importance of the HM microbiota in this context, there has been an increase in research efforts to characterize this in different populations and in relation to different maternal and infant characteristics. However, despite a decade of intensive research, there remain several unanswered questions in this field. In this review, the "5 W+H" approach (who, what, when, where, why, and how) is used to comprehensively describe the composition, function, and origin of the HM microbiome. Here, existing evidence will be drawn together and critically appraised to highlight avenues for further research, both basic and applied. Perhaps the most interesting of these is the potential to modulate the HM microbiome using pre/probiotics or dietary interventions. Another exciting possibility is the personalization of donor milk for women with insufficient supply. By gaining a deeper understanding of the HM microbiome, opportunities to intervene to optimize infant and lifelong health may be identified.

Combination of High-Pressure Processing and Freeze-Drying as the Most Effective Techniques in Maintaining Biological Values and Microbiological Safety of Donor Milk

BACKGROUND

Human milk banks have a pivotal role in provide optimal food for those infants who are not fully breastfeed, by allowing human milk from donors to be collected, processed and appropriately distributed. Donor human milk (DHM) is usually preserved by Holder pasteurization, considered to be the gold standard to ensure the microbiology safety and nutritional value of milk. However, as stated by the European Milk Banking Association (EMBA) there is a need to implement the improvement of the operating procedure of human milk banks including preserving and storing techniques.

AIM

The purpose of this study was to assess the effectiveness and safety of the selected new combination of methods for preserving donor human milk in comparison with thermal treatment (Holder pasteurization).

METHODS

We assessed (1) the concentration of bioactive components (insulin, adiponectin, leptin, activity of pancreatic lipase, and hepatocyte growth factor) and (2) microbiological safety in raw and pasteurized, high-pressure processed and lyophilization human breast milk.

RESULTS

The combination of two techniques, high-pressure processing and freeze-drying, showed the best potential for preserving the nutritional value of human milk and were evaluated for microbiological safety. Microbiological safety assessment excluded the possibility of using freeze-drying alone for human milk sample preservation. However, it can be used as a method for long-term storage of milk samples, which have previously been preserved via other processes.

CONCLUSION

The results show that high-pressure treatment is the best method for preservation that ensures microbiological safety and biological activity but subsequent freeze-drying allowed long-term storage without loss of properties.

High-Temperature Short-Time Preserves Human Milk's Bioactive Proteins and Their Function Better Than Pasteurization Techniques With Long Processing Times

Donor human milk is generally processed by holder pasteurization (HoP) at 62. 5°C for 30 min. This temperature-time combination is sufficient for eliminating pathogens in donor milk, but also negatively affects several bioactive milk components. Long heating up times may further affect the bioactive properties of pasteurized milk. High-Temperature-Short-Time (HTST), a treatment with shorter processing times (72°C for 15 sec), was investigated as a suitable alternative to HoP. In addition, pasteurization methods that follow the same temperature regime but with varying heating up times were compared. Human milk samples from four different donors were combined into one pool, which was then used to perform all analyses. The effects of these methods on the levels and functionality of immunoglobulin A, lactoferrin, lysozyme and bile salt-stimulated lipase, were evaluated with LC-MS/MS-based proteomics and activity assays, while the pasteurization efficacy was evaluated with an alkaline phosphatase test. HoP, a treatment with long processing times, times, caused the highest reduction in all proteins studied (reduced by 50-98%). Compounds such as lactoferrin and bile salt-stimulated lipase that are more sensitive to heat treatments were better retained with HTST, but their levels and functionality were still significantly lower than those of untreated donor milk (52 and 81% reduction of lactoferrin and bile salt-stimulated lipase activity, respectively). Our findings showed that a treatment with considerably shorter processing times, such as HTST, may reduce the thermal damage caused to the bioactive proteins compared to HoP, without affecting pasteurization efficacy. Since the vast majority of the donor human milk banks that are currently operating on a global level apply HoP to donor milk, our findings may provide relevant information for the optimization of donor milk processing.

Optimization of UV-C Processing of Donkey Milk: An Alternative to Pasteurization?

The effect of UV-C light technology on the inactivation of six foodborne pathogens inoculated in raw donkey milk was evaluated. Fresh raw donkey milk was artificially inoculated with the following foodborne pathogens-L. inoccua (NCTC 11288), S. aureus (NCTC 6571), B. cereus (NCTC 7464), Cronobacter sakazakii (NCTC 11467), E. coli (NCTC 9001), Salmonella enteritidis (NCTC 6676)-and then treated with UV-C doses of up to 1300 J/L. L. innocua was the most UV-C-resistant of the bacteria tested, requiring 1100 J/L for complete inactivation, while the rest of the bacteria tested was destructed in the range of 200-600 J/L. Results obtained from this study indicate that UV-C light technology has the potential to be used as a non-thermal processing method for the reduction of spoilage bacteria and foodborne pathogens that can be present in raw donkey milk.

Immunomodulatory Constituents of Human Donor Milk

Mother's own human milk is the best nutrition for infants, especially preterm very-low-birth-weight (VLBW) (≤1,500 g) infants, because of its immune-modulatory constituents that strengthen the infant's host defense, provide protection against infections, and decrease the risk of necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC). When mother's own milk is unavailable or insufficient, donor human milk is considered the best alternative, especially for preterm VLBW infants. However, to assure biological safety, donor milk must be pasteurized. This results in partial or complete inactivation of some of the immunomodulatory constituents of human milk, which confer host defense. This review summarizes the current evidence regarding the effects of pasteurization on the different immunological constituents of donor milk, and their clinical significance, especially in relation to prevention of NEC.

Effect of Nonthermal Processing on Human Milk Bactericidal Activity Against Escherichia coli

Nonthermal methods are more efficient at preserving various biological properties of human milk, as compared with holder pasteurization (HoP), which is the most common preservation method. This study was performed to assess the effects of nonthermal processing on bactericidal activity against Escherichia coli in human milk. Milk samples obtained from the Regional Human Milk Bank in Warsaw at Holy Family Hospital were processed by HoP, irradiated with ultraviolet-C (UV-C) for 5, 10, and 15 minutes (6720 J/L each minute), subjected to 2 variations of high-pressure processing (HPP): 450 MPa for 15 minutes and 200 MPa for 10 minutes + 400 MPa for 10 min, with a 10-minutes break. The samples were then evaluated by a bactericidal assay (raw untreated human milk was used as a control). The bactericidal capacity after HoP was preserved in 12.1% of samples, showing a significant reduction in bactericidal properties compared with in raw milk (P < 0.05). The differences between samples preserved by nonthermal methods and raw milk were not significant (P > 0.05). Nonthermal methods of human milk treatment better preserve the bactericidal capacity compared with holder pasteurisation. Those alternative technologies to HoP can be proposed after further investigation for milk processing for Human Milk Banks facilities.

The Evolving Microbiome from Pregnancy to Early Infancy: A Comprehensive Review

Pregnancy induces a number of immunological, hormonal, and metabolic changes that are necessary for the mother to adapt her body to this new physiological situation. The microbiome of the mother, the placenta and the fetus influence the fetus growth and undoubtedly plays a major role in the adequate development of the newborn infant. Hence, the microbiome modulates the inflammatory mechanisms related to physiological and pathological processes that are involved in the perinatal progress through different mechanisms. The present review summarizes the actual knowledge related to physiological changes in the microbiota occurring in the mother, the fetus, and the child, both during neonatal period and beyond. In addition, we approach some specific pathological situations during the perinatal periods, as well as the influence of the type of delivery and feeding.

Impact of vaccination during pregnancy and staphylococci concentration on the presence of Bacillus cereus in raw human milk

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to determine whether vaccination during pregnancy, prematurity, and staphylococci concentration influenced the presence of B. cereus or staphylococcal enterotoxins (SEs) in raw human milk from healthy mothers.

STUDY DESIGN

Human milk samples were collected from 152 healthy women. B. cereus, S. aureus and coagulase-negative staphylococci (CNS) were enumerated using selective agar culture media. The detection of B. cereus spores and SEs were determined using ELISA.

RESULTS

CNS and B. cereus concentrations in milk from non-vaccinated mothers were higher than that from mothers vaccinated during pregnancy, but S. aureus did not differ. Prematurity did not affect B. cereus or staphylococci in human milk. S. aureus and CNS concentrations in human milk with the presence of B. cereus were higher than that with the absence of B. cereus. Viable B. cereus was present in 9.2% of raw human milk samples whereas SEs were not detected in any samples.

CONCLUSIONS

Vaccination during pregnancy and low concentration of staphylococci could reduce the risk of B. cereus in raw human milk. The screening of B. cereus in raw human milk must be performed before pasteurization to reduce the risk of B. cereus infection in preterm infants.

Review shows that donor milk does not promote the growth and development of preterm infants as well as maternal milk

Aim

This nonsystematic review examined differences in the composition of raw maternal breastmilk and pasteurised donor milk and possible health effects on preterm infants.

Methods

We searched PubMed up to July 2018 for studies published in English that focused on four comparisons as follows: raw maternal milk versus donor milk, human milk before and after Holder pasteurisation, milk from mothers who delivered preterm and at term and milk collected during early and late lactation. We also searched for possible effects of the milk components, as well as the effects of maternal and donor milk on preterm infants’ health.

Results

Raw maternal milk contained factors involved in antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory defence, gut microbiome establishment and the maturation of immune defences, food tolerability and metabolism. Many of these factors were reduced or abolished in processed donor milk. Both maternal milk and donor milk have been associated with a reduced incidence of necrotising enterocolitis. High‐dose feeding with maternal milk during the neonatal period reportedly reduced the risk of other morbidities and promoted growth and neurodevelopment.

Conclusion

Many of the components in raw maternal breastmilk were lacking in pasteurised donor milk, which was inferior in promoting the growth and development of very preterm infants.

Innovative Techniques of Processing Human Milk to Preserve Key Components

Human milk not only contains all nutritional elements that an infant requires, but is also the source of components whose regulatory role was confirmed by demonstrating health-related deficiencies in formula-fed children. A human milk diet is especially important for premature babies in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). In cases where breastfeeding is not possible and the mother's own milk is insufficient in volume, the most preferred food is pasteurized donor milk. The number of human milk banks has increased recently but their technical infrastructure is continuously developing. Heat treatment at a low temperature and long time, also known as holder pasteurization (62.5 °C, 30 min), is the most widespread method of human milk processing, whose effects on the quality of donor milk is well documented. Holder pasteurization destroys vegetative forms of bacteria and most viruses including human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) herpes and cytomegalovirus (CMV). The macronutrients remain relatively intact but various beneficial components are destroyed completely or compromised. Enzymes and immune cells are the most heat sensitive elements. The bactericidal capacity of heat-pasteurized milk is lower than that of untreated milk. The aim of the study was for a comprehensive comparison of currently tested methods of improving the preservation stage. Innovative techniques of milk processing should minimize the risk of milk-borne infections and preserve the bioactivity of this complex biological fluid better than the holder method. In the present paper, the most promising thermal pasteurization condition (72 °C-75 °C,) and a few non-thermal processes were discussed (high pressure processing, microwave irradiation). This narrative review presents an overview of methods of human milk preservation that have been explored to improve the safety and quality of donor milk.

A Modified Holder Pasteurization Method for Donor Human Milk: Preliminary Data

Background: Holder pasteurization (HoP) is the recommended method of pasteurization for donor human milk (DHM). The aim of the present study was to compare nutritional and microbiological impact on DHM of a new technique of pasteurization based on technical changes of HoP. Methods: We analyzed milk samples from 25 donors. Each sample, derived from one breast milk expression, was subdivided into three aliquots according to pasteurization: The first was not pasteurized, the second pasteurized by HoP, and the third was pasteurized by modified HoP (MHoP). Each aliquot was assessed as to its microbiological and nutritional profile. Nutritional profile included calcium and triglycerides concentrations detected by spectrophotometry and amino acid levels assessed by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Results: Triglycerides were significantly lower in pasteurized, by both methods, than in not pasteurized aliquots, while calcium and amino acids concentration were similar. Microbiological profile did not differ between HoP and MHoP aliquots. Conclusions: HoP and MHoP seem to have similar efficacy in preserving some nutritional characteristics of DHM and to confer similar microbiological safety. MHoP is time-saving and potentially costs-effective when compared to HoP, and it is; therefore, potentially of more interest from a practical point of view. Further studies are needed to confirm these findings.

Is Frozen Human Milk That Is Refused by Mother's Own Infant Suitable for Human Milk Bank Donation?

Background: Infant refusal to feed previously frozen human milk is thought possibly attributable to lipase, an enzyme that cleaves fatty acids from milk triglycerides potentially changing the taste of the milk. Previous reports suggest that this milk is not harmful to infants; however, the lipase activity, macronutrient content, concentration of free fatty acids (FFAs), pH, and bacterial load of milk that meets this criterion are not fully understood. Objective: The objective was to determine whether refused frozen milk is different in composition from typical milk deposits received at a human milk bank. Methods: Frozen milk deposits previously refused by mother's own infant were collected from 16 mothers at five different time points when available (postpartum days 30, 60, 90, 120, and 150). Lipase activity, macronutrient composition, levels of FFA, pH, and bacteriology were determined. Analysis of mature donor milk and bacteriology data from the Ontario milk bank were used as controls. Results: The lipase activity for all samples was at or below literature values for mature human milk and lower compared with control milk (p < 0.001) for all time periods except at day 30. Macronutrient composition was not different from control values and did not change significantly over 150 days, with the exception of crude protein, which declined with milk maturity (p < 0.005). The pH for all postpartum time groups was lower (p < 0.02) in refused milk, and was inversely associated with lipase activity and FFA. FFA and bacterial counts were not different from control samples. Conclusions: Infant refusal of previously frozen milk may not be entirely due to endogenous lipase activity. This milk appears suitable for donation to human milk banks.

Staphylococcus aureus Enterotoxin Production in Raw, Holder-Pasteurized, and Ultraviolet-C-Treated Donated Human Milk

Background: Some strains of Staphylococcus aureus can produce heat-stable enterotoxins that have been associated with gastritis and potentially necrotizing enterocolitis in preterm infants. Objectives/Hypothesis: To assess the impact of different storage temperatures on S. aureus growth and enterotoxin production in raw, Holder-pasteurized (HP) and ultraviolet-C (UV-C)-treated donated human milk (DHM). Materials and Methods: The milk samples from individual donors were pooled and divided into four equal portions. One portion was HP, the second was UV-C treated, the third was not treated, and the fourth was UV-C treated after being spiked with S. aureus. All samples were incubated at 37°C (18 hours) and 4°C (14 days). Bacterial colony count, enterotoxin A and B, and immune proteins were quantified. Results: At 37°C, the colony count increased in HP DHM and decreased in raw and UV-C-treated DHM. At 4°C, colony counts in HP DHM reduced and were not detected in raw and UV-C-treated DHM from day 8 of incubation. No bacteria were detected in samples that were inoculated before UV-C treatment. Enterotoxin A was only detected in HP-DHM at 37°C from the 9th hour onward. Enterotoxin B was detected in one sample at the 15th hour. Immune protein concentrations were similar in raw and UV-C DHM, and were reduced in the HP DHM. Conclusion: UV-C-treated milk reduces S. aureus growth with similar kinetics to raw milk making it a promising emerging technique to eliminate bacteria while retaining essential immune proteins in DHM.

High Hydrostatic Pressure Processing Better Preserves the Nutrient and Bioactive Compound Composition of Human Donor Milk

BACKGROUND

When mother's milk is insufficient, pasteurized human donor milk (DM) is the recommended supplement for hospitalized very-low-birth-weight infants. The current method of pasteurization (Holder, 62.5°C, 30 min) negatively affects heat-sensitive nutrients and bioactive proteins.

OBJECTIVES

Objectives of this study were to compare changes in DM composition after thermal pasteurization (Holder and flash-heating) and nonthermal methods [UV-C irradiation and high hydrostatic pressure (HHP)]. We hypothesized that nonthermal techniques would result in fewer changes to composition.

METHODS

Holder, flash-heating (brought to boil), UV-C irradiation (250 nm, 25 min), and HHP (500 MPa, 8 min) were studied. Pools of milk from 17 women known to contain bacteria at >5 × 107 colony forming units (CFU)/L were collected from the Rogers Hixon Ontario Human Milk Bank and underwent each pasteurization technique. Macronutrients, heat-sensitive micronutrients (vitamin C, folate), and bioactive components [bile-salt-stimulated lipase (BSSL), lysozyme, lactoferrin] were measured in raw and pools of pasteurized milk. Milk was cultured to determine how well each technique produced a culture negative result (detection limit <1 × 103 CFU/L).

RESULTS

Folate was reduced by 24-27% after Holder, flash-heating, and UV-C (P < 0.05); no reduction was observed after HHP. All pasteurization methods reduced vitamin C (60-75%, P < 0.001). BSSL was abolished after Holder and flash-heating (P < 0.001), reduced after UV-C (48%, P < 0.001), but unaffected by HHP. Lysozyme activity was reduced after flash-heating (44%) and UV-C (74%, P < 0.004) but unaffected by Holder or HHP. Lactoferrin was reduced by all methods (P < 0.02) but most severely by flash-heating (74%) and least severely by HHP (25%). Holder and UV-C reduced lactoferrin by ∼48%. All pasteurization methods reduced the number of culture positive DM samples (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

HHP better preserves human milk composition than Holder pasteurization. Future research on the feasibility of HHP for pasteurizing human milk is warranted because its implementation may improve the nutritional status and health of DM-fed infants.

Processing of Donor Human Milk: Update and Recommendations From the European Milk Bank Association (EMBA)

Background: A mother's own milk (MOM) is the gold standard for the feeding and nutrition of preterm and full term infants. When MOM is not available or there is not enough, donor human milk (DHM) should be used. Milk delivered to Human Milk Banks (HMBs) should be pasteurized to inactivate viral and bacterial agents. Currently, a pasteurization process at 62.5°C for 30 min (Holder pasteurization, HoP) is recommended in all international HMBs guidelines. State of the art: It is known that HoP affects some of the nutritional and biological components of human milk. Studies have demonstrated that temperature cycle in HoP is not always controlled or calibrated. A better check of these parameters in the pasteurizers on the market today may contribute to an improvement of the quality of HM, still maintaining some of the negative effects of the heat treatment of human milk. So, food industry, and dairy industry in particular, are evaluating innovative methodologies alternative to HoP to better preserve the nutritional and biological properties of fresh human milk, while assuring at least the same microbiological safety of HoP. The most studied processing techniques include High-Temperature-Short-Time (HTST) pasteurization, High Pressure Processing (HPP), and Ultraviolet-C (UV-C) irradiation. HTST is a thermal process in which milk is forced between plates or pipes that are heated on the outside by hot water at a temperature of 72°C for 5-15 s. HPP is a non-thermal processing method that can be applied to solid and liquid foods. This technology inactivates pathogenic microorganisms by applying a high hydrostatic pressure (usually 300-800 MPa) during short-term treatments (<5-10 min). UV irradiation utilizes short-wavelength ultraviolet radiation in the UV-C region (200-280 nm), which is harmful to microorganisms. It is effective in destroying the nucleic acids in these organisms, so that their DNA is disrupted by UV radiation. Aim: The aim of this paper is to present the EMBA recommendations on processing of HM, based on the most recent results obtained with these new technologies. Conclusions: Although research on the most promising technologies that will represent an alternative to HoP (HTST, HPP, UV-C) in the future is progressing, it is now important to recognize that the consistency and quality assurance of the pasteurizers on the market today represent a fundamental component that was previously lacking in the Holder approach.

New Achievements in High-Pressure Processing to Preserve Human Milk Bioactivity

High-pressure processing (HPP) is a non-thermal technology that is being increasingly applied in food industries worldwide. It was proposed that this method could be used as an alternative to holder pasteurization (HoP; 62.5°C, 30 min) in milk banks but its impact on the immunologic, enzymatic and hormonal components of human milk has not yet been evaluated in detail. The aim of our study was to compare the effects of HPP in variants: (1) 600 MPa, 10 min (2) 100 MPa, 10 min, interval 10 min, 600 MPa, 10 min (3) 200 MPa, 10 min, interval 10 min, 400 MPa, 10 min (4) 200 MPa, 10 min, interval 10 min, 600 MPa, 10 min in temperature range 19-21°C and HoP on the leptin, adiponectin, insulin, hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), lactoferrin and IgG contents in human milk. HoP was done at the Regional Human Milk Bank in Warsaw at the Holy Family Hospital on S90 Eco pasteurizer (Sterifeed, Medicare Colgate Ltd). Apparatus U4000/65 (Unipress Equipment, Poland) was used for pascalization. Milk samples were obtained from women during 2-6 weeks of lactation. Post-treatment culture showed no endogenous bacterial contamination in any tested option. Concentrations of selected components were determined using ELISA tests. The level of all analyzed components were significantly decreased by HoP: leptin 77.86%, adiponectin 32.79%, insulin 32.40%, HGF 88.72%, lactoferrin 60.31@.%, IgG 49.04%. All HPP variants caused an increase in leptin concentration, respectively (1) 81.79% (2) 90.01% (3) 86.12% (4) 47.96%. Retention of insulin after HPP was (1) 88.20% (2) 81.98% (3) 94.76% (4) 90.31% HGF (1) 36.15% (2) 38.81% 97.15% (3) 97.15% (4) 43.02%, lactoferrin (1) 55.78% (2) 57.63% (3) 78.77% (4) 64.75%. Moreover, HPP variant as 200 + 400 MPa preserved IgG (82.24%) better than HoP and resulted not statistically significant change of adiponectin level (38.55%) compare to raw milk. Our results showed that HPP leads to preservation of adipokines, growth factor, and lactoferrin, IgG much better or comparable with HoP.

A New High Hydrostatic Pressure Process to Assure the Microbial Safety of Human Milk While Preserving the Biological Activity of Its Main Components

Background: The main process used to pasteurize human milk is the low-temperature, long-time Holder method. More recently, the high-temperature, short-time method has been investigated. Both processes lead to the appropriate inactivation of vegetative bacterial forms but are ineffective against bacterial spores. Research Aims/Questions: We aimed to accomplish two main objectives: inactivation of all pathogens, including spores; and preservation of the activity of milk components. Design/Methods: Recently, a novel high-hydrostatic pressure process has been developed by HPBioTECH. Using the same raw human milk samples, we compared the effects of this method with those of the Holder method on vegetative and spore forms of pathogens and on bioactive components (lipase activity, immunoproteins). Results: Two main microbial strains were selected: Staphylococcus aureus (as a reference for vegetative forms) and Bacillus cereus (as a reference for spores). Use of the high-hydrostatic pressure process led to microbial decontamination of 6 log for both S. aureus and B. cereus. Additionally, the bioactivity of the main components of human milk was preserved, with activities of lipase, α-lactalbumin, casein, lysozyme, lactoferrin, and sIgA of ~80, 96-99, 98-100, 95-100, 93-97, and 63-64%, respectively. Conclusions: Use of this novel high-hydrostatic pressure process to generate microbiologically safe human milk may provide important benefits for preterm infants, including improved assimilation of human milk (leading increased weight gain) and improved resistance to infections. Because 10% of all human milk collected is contaminated by B. cereus, use of this method will also prevent waste.

[A review on the prevention and treatment of congenital cytomegalovirus infection in mothers and infants]

Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) has a high infection rate worldwide, and 85%-90% of congenital cytomegalovirus (CMV) infections are asymptomatic at birth, with the clinical manifestations of hearing loss, psychomotor retardation, and learning disabilities, while 10%-15% are symptomatic infections. Some preterm infants develop CMV infection after birth, which can cause sepsis-like syndrome, thrombocytopenia, neutropenia, liver injury, and lung injury. However at present, women of childbearing age have a lack of awareness of CMV. CMV education and hygiene precautions for pregnant women can prevent CMV infections in themselves and congenital CMV infections in their infants. No definite results have been obtained from the studies on the effect of CMV vaccine and high-titer immunoglobulin in preventing congenital CMV infection in fetuses. Recent studies have confirmed that the specificity and sensitivity of urinary or salivary CMV-DNA detection have reached more than 98%, which contributes to the early diagnosis of congenital CMV infection. In addition to short-term treatment with ganciclovir, long-term treatment with oral valganciclovir is safe for symptomatic congenital CMV infection and appears to have a better clinical effect than the short-term treatment. In the future, it is necessary to strengthen the health education for pregnant women, enhance the mother-to-child management of CMV infection, conduct the research on CMV vaccine, and further standardize treatment regimens.

Improving Pasteurization to Preserve the Biological Components of Donated Human Milk

Donor human milk (DHM) in human milk banks (HMB) is routinely subjected to heat treatment to ensure microbiological security, most guidelines recommending a temperature of 62. 5°C for 30 min. However, this procedure negatively impacts on milk quality, due to the destruction of biological components. Different studies have called for a more respectful treatment of DHM to preserve its properties, and have explored the use of alternative technologies. There is also clear evidence that bacterial and viral contamination in human milk can be effectively destroyed by temperatures lower than that currently recommended (62.5°C). Thus, a simple option would be to optimize the conventional pasteurization technique so the treated milk is free of infectious elements yet retains a maximum amount of biological components. An advantage of this approach is that it would be unnecessary to replace the pasteurization equipment currently available in most HMB. On the basis of a literature review, we here analyze and discuss evidence that pasteurization of human milk at a temperature below 62.5°C results in an improved preservation of its properties without compromising safety regarding the transmission of infectious agents.

Lactoferrin: A Critical Player in Neonatal Host Defense

Newborn infants are at a high risk for infection due to an under-developed immune system, and human milk has been shown to exhibit substantial anti-infective properties that serve to bolster neonatal defenses against multiple infections. Lactoferrin is the dominant whey protein in human milk and has been demonstrated to perform a wide array of antimicrobial and immunomodulatory functions and play a critical role in protecting the newborn infant from infection. This review summarizes data describing the structure and important functions performed by lactoferrin in protecting the neonate from infection and contributing to the maturation of the newborn innate and adaptive immune systems. We also briefly discuss clinical trials examining the utility of lactoferrin supplementation in the prevention of sepsis and necrotizing enterocolitis in newborn infants. The data reviewed provide rationale for the continuation of studies to examine the effects of lactoferrin administration on the prevention of sepsis in the neonate.

Oxidative Stress and Necrotizing Enterocolitis: Pathogenetic Mechanisms, Opportunities for Intervention, and Role of Human Milk

This review will examine the role of oxidative stress (OS) in the pathogenesis of necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) and explore potential preventive and therapeutic antioxidant strategies. Preterm infants are particularly exposed to OS as a result of several perinatal stimuli and constitutive defective antioxidant defenses. For this reason, OS damage represents a contributing factor to several complications of prematurity, including necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC). Being NEC a multifactorial disease, OS may act as downstream component of the pathogenetic cascade. To counteract OS in preterm infants with NEC, several antioxidant strategies have been proposed and different antioxidant compounds have been experimented. It is well known that human milk (HM) is an important source of antioxidants. At the same time, the role of an exclusive HM diet is well recognized in the prevention of NEC. However, donor HM (DHM) processing may impair antioxidant properties. As DHM is becoming a common nutritional intervention for high risk PI, the antioxidant status of preterm and DHM and potential ways to preserve its antioxidant capacity may merit further investigation.

Preterm Gut Microbiome Depending on Feeding Type: Significance of Donor Human Milk

Preterm microbial colonization is affected by gestational age, antibiotic treatment, type of birth, but also by type of feeding. Breast milk has been acknowledged as the gold standard for human nutrition. In preterm infants breast milk has been associated with improved growth and cognitive development and a reduced risk of necrotizing enterocolitis and late onset sepsis. In the absence of their mother's own milk (MOM), pasteurized donor human milk (DHM) could be the best available alternative due to its similarity to the former. However, little is known about the effect of DHM upon preterm microbiota and potential biological implications. Our objective was to determine the impact of DHM upon preterm gut microbiota admitted in a referral neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). A prospective observational cohort study in NICU of 69 neonates <32 weeks of gestation and with a birth weight ≤1,500 g was conducted. Neonates were classified in three groups according to feeding practices consisting in their MOM, DHM, or formula. Fecal samples were collected when full enteral feeding (defined as ≥150 cc/kg/day) was achieved. Gut microbiota composition was analyzed by 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Despite the higher variability, no differences in microbial diversity and richness were found, although feeding type significantly influenced the preterm microbiota composition and predictive functional profiles. Preterm infants fed MOM showed a significant greater presence of Bifidobacteriaceae and lower of Staphylococcaceae, Clostridiaceae, and Pasteurellaceae compared to preterm fed DHM. Formula fed microbial profile was different to those observed in preterm fed MOM. Remarkably, preterm infants fed DHM showed closer microbial profiles to preterm fed their MOM. Inferred metagenomic analyses showed higher presence of Bifidobacterium genus in mother's milk group was related to enrichment in the Glycan biosynthesis and metabolism pathway that was not identified in the DHM or in the formula fed groups. In conclusion, DHM favors an intestinal microbiome more similar to MOM than formula despite the differences between MOM and DHM. This may have potential beneficial long-term effects on intestinal functionality, immune system, and metabolic activities.

High-Temperature Short-Time Pasteurization System for Donor Milk in a Human Milk Bank Setting

Donor milk is the best alternative for the feeding of preterm newborns when mother's own milk is unavailable. For safety reasons, it is usually pasteurized by the Holder method (62.5°C for 30 min). Holder pasteurization results in a microbiological safe product but impairs the activity of many biologically active compounds such as immunoglobulins, enzymes, cytokines, growth factors, hormones or oxidative stress markers. High-temperature short-time (HTST) pasteurization has been proposed as an alternative for a better preservation of some of the biological components of human milk although, at present, there is no equipment available to perform this treatment under the current conditions of a human milk bank. In this work, the specific needs of a human milk bank setting were considered to design an HTST equipment for the continuous and adaptable (time-temperature combination) processing of donor milk. Microbiological quality, activity of indicator enzymes and indices for thermal damage of milk were evaluated before and after HTST treatment of 14 batches of donor milk using different temperature and time combinations and compared to the results obtained after Holder pasteurization. The HTST system has accurate and simple operation, allows the pasteurization of variable amounts of donor milk and reduces processing time and labor force. HTST processing at 72°C for, at least, 10 s efficiently destroyed all vegetative forms of microorganisms present initially in raw donor milk although sporulated Bacillus sp. survived this treatment. Alkaline phosphatase was completely destroyed after HTST processing at 72 and 75°C, but γ-glutamil transpeptidase showed higher thermoresistance. Furosine concentrations in HTST-treated donor milk were lower than after Holder pasteurization and lactulose content for HTST-treated donor milk was below the detection limit of analytical method (10 mg/L). In conclusion, processing of donor milk at 72°C for at least 10 s in this HTST system allows to achieve the microbiological safety objectives established in the milk bank while having a lower impact regarding the heat damage of the milk.

Evaluation of Fetal Intestinal Cell Growth and Antimicrobial Biofunctionalities of Donor Human Milk After Preparative Processes

BACKGROUND

Donor human milk is considered the next best nutrition following mother's own milk to prevent neonatal infection and necrotizing enterocolitis in preterm infants who are admitted at neonatal intensive care unit. However, donor milk biofunctionalities after preparative processes have rarely been documented.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate biofunctionalities preserved in donor milk after preparative processes by cell-based assays.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Ten pools of donor milk were produced from 40 independent specimens. After preparative processes, including bacterial elimination methods (holder pasteurization and cold-sterilization microfiltration) and storage conditions (-20°C freezing storage and lyophilization) with varied duration of storage (0, 3, and 6, months), donor milk biofunctionalities were examined by fetal intestinal cell growth and antimicrobial assays.

RESULTS

At baseline, raw donor milk exhibited 193.1% ± 12.3% of fetal intestinal cell growth and 42.4% ± 11.8% of antimicrobial activities against Escherichia coli. After bacteria eliminating processes, growth promoting activity was better preserved in pasteurized donor milk than microfiltrated donor milk (169.5% ± 14.3% versus 146.0% ± 11.8%, respectively; p < 0.005), whereas antimicrobial activity showed no difference between groups (38.3% ± 14.1% versus 53.7% ± 17.3%, respectively; p = 0.499). The pasteurized donor milk was further examined for the effects of storage conditions at 3 and 6 months. Freezing storage, but not lyophilization, could preserve higher growth-promoting activity during 6 months of storage (163.0% ± 9.4% versus 72.8% ± 6.2%, respectively; p < 0.005). Nonetheless, antimicrobial activity was lost at 6 months, regardless of the storage methods.

CONCLUSIONS

This study revealed that fetal intestinal cell growth and antimicrobial assays could be applied to measure donor milk biofunctionalities and support the utilization of donor milk within 3 months after preparative processes.

"Omics" in Human Colostrum and Mature Milk: Looking to Old Data with New Eyes

Human Milk (HM) is the best source for newborn nutrition until at least six months; it exerts anti-inflammatory and anti-infective functions, promotes immune system formation and supports organ development. Breastfeeding could also protect from obesity, diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Furthermore, human colostrum (HC) presents a peculiar role in newborn support as a protective effect against allergic and chronic diseases, in addition to long-term metabolic benefits. In this review, we discuss the recent literature regarding "omics" technologies and growth factors (GF) in HC and the effects of pasteurization on its composition. Our aim was to provide new evidence in terms of transcriptomics, proteomics, metabolomics, and microbiomics, also in relation to maternal metabolic diseases and/or fetal anomalies and to underline the functions of GF. Since HC results are so precious, particularly for the vulnerable pre-terms category, we also discuss the importance of HM pasteurization to ensure donated HC even to neonates whose mothers are unable to provide. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first review analyzing in detail the molecular pattern, microbiota, bioactive factors, and dynamic profile of HC, finding clinical correlations of such mediators with their possible in vivo effects and with the consequent impact on neonatal outcomes.

Ultraviolet irradiation of spray-dried porcine plasma does not affect the growth performance of nursery pigs when compared with nonirradiated bovine plasma

Ultraviolet light irradiation of spray-dried porcine plasma (SDPP) decreases the risk of disease transmission, but it may decrease the activity of bioactive components in SDPP. Therefore, the objectives of this study were to determine growth performance, morbidity, and mortality responses of nursery pigs fed UV-irradiated SDPP (UV-SDPP) compared with nonirradiated spray-dried bovine plasma (SDBP). Pigs (n = 480; 6.09 ± 2.4 kg initial BW) were blocked by initial BW, and blocks were assigned to pens. the sex ratio was equalized within blocks and pens. Pens were randomly assigned to 1 of 5 dietary treatments (8 pigs/pen and 12 replicates/treatment) in a 3-phase feeding program (phase 1 = d 0 to 13, phase 2 = d 14 to 27, and phase 3 = d 28 to 55). Dietary treatments included a control diet without UV-SDPP or SDBP and diets containing 3% UV-SDPP, 3% SDBP, 6% UV-SDPP, or 6% SDBP during phase 1. Diets were formulated to meet or exceed nutrient requirements and contained the same concentrations of standardized ileal digestible Lys and Lys:ME ratio within phases. Pigs were provided ad libitum access to diets throughout the 55-d experiment. Dietary inclusion rates during phase 2 were reduced to 1.5% UV-SDPP, 1.5% SDBP, 3% UV-SDPP, and 3% SDBP, and all pigs were fed a common diet without UV-SDPP or SDBP during phase 3. Growth performance data were analyzed as a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement of treatments with a control within a completely randomized block design to evaluate the main effects of plasma processing (UV irradiated vs. nonirradiated) and dietary inclusion level, and block, room, and pen were random effects. In phase 1, there were no differences in G:F among treatments, but pigs fed 6% UV-SDPP and 6% SDBP had greater (P < 0.01) ADG (0.11 vs. 0.08 kg/d) and ADFI (0.17 vs. 0.15 kg/d) than pigs fed the control, 3% SDBP, and 3% UV-SDPP diets. After phase 1 (d13), feeding UV-SDPP or SDBP increased (P = 0.02) the BW of pigs. In phases 2 and 3 and the overall feeding period (d 0 to 55), there were no differences in ADG, ADFI, and G:F among dietary treatments. There was a linear decrease (P < 0.01) in mortality of nursery pigs as dietary inclusion rate of SDBP and UV-SDPP increased. In conclusion, feeding SDBP or UV-SDPP diets improved ADG and ADFI during the first 2 wk after weaning due to improved feed consumption, and UV irradiation appeared to have no detrimental effects on the feeding value of SDPP.