Question

As per FSSAI, 2011, the maximum permitted total bacterial count for infant milk food is

• A. 500 cfu/g
• B. 1000 cfu/g
• C. 2500 cfu/g
• D. 5000 cfu/g

Hint:

FSSAI Microbiological Limits: Infant Milk Food Formula $\rightarrow$ Max Total Bacterial Count = 2,500 cfu/g. Coliforms = Absent in 0.1 g.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
National regulatory microbiological criteria for infant foods: Food Safety and Standards (Food Products Standards and Food Additives) Regulations, 2011 stipulate a maximum Total Bacterial Count (SPC) of 2,500 cfu/g for Infant Milk Food Infant Formula.
Key Formula or Approach:
\[ \text{FSSAI Standards for Infant Milk Food: Total Bacterial Count } \le \mathbf{2,500 \text{ cfu/g}} \quad (\text{Coliforms: Absent in 0.1 g}) \]

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Under the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) Regulations, 2011 (Microbiological Standards for Milk and Milk Products, Appendix B):
- For Infant Milk Food Infant Formula Powder:
1. Total Bacterial Plate Count (SPC): The maximum permissible limit is strictly set at 2,500 cfu/g (not exceeding 2,500 colonies per gram of dry product).
2. Coliform Count: Absent in $0.1\text{ g}$ ($< 10\text{ cfu/g}$).
3. Yeast and Mold Count: Absent in $0.1\text{ g}$.
4. Salmonella, Listeria, Cronobacter sakazakii: Completely Absent in $25\text{ g} - 100\text{ g}$.

Step 3: Final Answer:
Hence, the maximum permitted total bacterial count is 2500 cfu/g, corresponding to option (C).