What should you do to the tops of formula cans before opening?

What should you do to the tops of formula cans before opening?

• A. Wipe with dry cloth only
• B. Wash tops of formula cans before opening
• C. Use dirty cloth
• D. Do nothing

Answer: (B)

Contamination prevention is the main idea here. The top of a formula can can pick up dirt, dust, or bacteria from handling, storage, or contact with unclean surfaces. When you open the can, any microbes on that lid can be transferred to the powder or the pour spout, potentially contaminating the formula that will be fed to an infant. Washing the top with soap and warm water before opening helps remove these surface contaminants and reduces the risk of introducing microbes into the formula. After washing, dry the lid with a clean towel. This practice is safer than wiping with a dry cloth, using a dirty cloth, or doing nothing, because those methods may not effectively remove bacteria.

Contamination prevention is the main idea here. The top of a formula can can pick up dirt, dust, or bacteria from handling, storage, or contact with unclean surfaces. When you open the can, any microbes on that lid can be transferred to the powder or the pour spout, potentially contaminating the formula that will be fed to an infant. Washing the top with soap and warm water before opening helps remove these surface contaminants and reduces the risk of introducing microbes into the formula. After washing, dry the lid with a clean towel. This practice is safer than wiping with a dry cloth, using a dirty cloth, or doing nothing, because those methods may not effectively remove bacteria.