International Board of Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) Practice Exam

Does the Holder method of pasteurization effectively kill cytomegalovirus (CMV)?

1. Yes

2. No

3. Only in high temperatures

4. Only in low temperatures

The correct answer is: Yes

The Holder method of pasteurization is a widely accepted technique used in the processing of human milk, particularly for the purpose of eliminating pathogens that could potentially harm preterm infants and immunocompromised individuals. This method involves heating the milk to a temperature of 62.5 degrees Celsius (145 degrees Fahrenheit) for 30 minutes. This specific combination of temperature and time has been shown to effectively kill cytomegalovirus (CMV). While some viruses may require different conditions for inactivation, research indicates that CMV is particularly sensitive to heat, and the Holder method is robust enough to ensure that it is rendered non-viable. Therefore, applying this pasteurization approach provides a significant safety measure, especially in donor milk feeds for vulnerable populations. Other answers may imply varying degrees of effectiveness or conditions under which CMV might survive, but the evidence supports that the Holder method successfully eliminates CMV, contributing to the overall safety of pasteurized human milk. This knowledge is crucial for lactation consultants and healthcare providers involved in infant nutrition, particularly concerning the health risks associated with viral pathogens in breast milk.