International Board of Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) Practice Exam

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What is the Holder method of pasteurization in human milk banks?

Heating at 62.5 degrees Celsius for 30 minutes
Heating at 70 degrees Celsius for 20 minutes
Cooling before feeding
Heating at 75 degrees Celsius for 15 minutes

The correct answer is: Heating at 62.5 degrees Celsius for 30 minutes

The Holder method of pasteurization is a specific technique used in human milk banks to ensure the safety of donor milk while preserving its nutritional and immunological components. Heating human milk at 62.5 degrees Celsius for 30 minutes effectively kills harmful pathogens without significantly damaging the beneficial properties of the milk. This temperature and time combination strikes a balance between ensuring microbial safety and maintaining the quality of the milk. This method is favored in many milk banks globally, as it has been researched and validated for its efficacy. By using this pasteurization method, human milk banks can provide safe milk for infants, particularly those in vulnerable health situations, such as premature or ill infants, who may lack sufficient immune defenses. While other heating methods mentioned might achieve pasteurization, they do not align with the established Holder method parameters, which are critical for ensuring both safety and maximum benefit of the donor milk for infants.