Extension Fact Sheet

Microwave Sterilization Technology

Authors

Dr. Juming Tang, Professor of Food Engineering, Dept. of Biological Systems Engineering, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164-6120 Galina Mikhaylenko, Associate in Research, Dept. of Biological Systems Engineering, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164-6120 Dr. Josip Simunovic, Research Associate Professor , Dept. of Food, Bioprocessing and Nutrition Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695
1. How does microwave heat foods? 2. What are current industrial applications of microwave heating in North America? 3. What are the advantages of this technology and how it will benefit consumers? 4. Can microwave sterilization be used for processing all foods? 6. Is food processed in microwave safe for consumers? 6. What is the shelf life of microwave processed products? 7. Are microwave sterilized products commercially available? 8. How are microwave processed foods stored? 9. Is commercial scale equipment available? 10. Is microwave sterilization equipment safe to operate and/or is it safe for environment? 11. How economical is microwave sterilization processing? 12. What regulatory acceptance is required for commercializing a microwave sterilization processed product? 13. Are research facilities available for product and process development before venturing into microwave sterilization processing?
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1. How does microwave sterilization heats food?
Microwave sterilization is a thermal process [1]. It delivers energy to the food package under pressure and controlled temperature to achieve inactivation of bacteria harmful for humans. Most processed foods today are heat treated to kill bacteria. Prolong exposure to high heat often diminishes product quality. Microwaves interact with polar water molecules and charged ions. The friction resulting from molecules aligning in rapidly alternating electromagnetic field generates the heat within food. Since the heat is produced directly in the food, the thermal processing time is sharply reduced. The color, texture and other sensory attributes of foods processed by microwave sterilization are often better compared with those of conventionally retorted foods while meeting microbial safety requirements. Currently, researchers are generating scientific and engineering information to support regulatory acceptance of microwave sterilization technology for industrial applications. US Federal Communication Commission (FCC) allocates 915 MHz and 2450 MHz bands for industrial and domestic microwave heating applications. The microwave sterilization technology developed at Washington State University uses the combination of 915 MHz microwave and conventional heating to improve heating uniformity.
2. What are current industrial applications of microwave heating in North America?
Microwave ovens operating at 2450 MHz are common appliances in the households of USA and around the world. Hundreds of 2450 and 915 MHz systems between 10 to 200 kW heating capacities are used in the food industry for precooking bacons (e.g., used in Subways restaurants), tempering deep frozen meats when making meat patties, and precooking many other foods products [2, 3, 4, 5]. Commercial systems performing microwave pasteurization and/or sterilization of foods are currently available in Europe (e.g. TOP's Foods); however, the use of microwaves in USA to produce pre-packaged shelf stable foods is pending upon FDA acceptance. The FDA acceptance has been recently granted for a sweet potato puree product sterilized using continuous flow microwave processing and aseptic packaging. This first industrial implementation of continuous flow microwave sterilization for low acid products has been implemented by Yamco in Snow Hill, NC.
3. What are the advantages of this technology and how does this technology benefit consumers?
There are a number of advantages of this novel and versatile food processing technology: A significant reduction in the thermal processing time while making food safe for consumption is the major advantage of microwave sterilization processing.

The reduction in processing time results in more fresh-like taste and texture, and improves visual appeal of the food. The reduction of processing time may also potentially increase retention of nutrients in the thermally processed foods. Instantaneous turn-on and off of the process allows for a more precise process control, better energy usage, and cleaner working environment in food processing facilities. The use of post packaging processing could benefit manufactures in reducing spoilage, eliminating refrigeration costs, and provide safe foods for consumers. The microwave sterilization/pasteurization technology offers great opportunities for innovative food companies seeking to develop new food products which have not been possible due to limitation of severe heat in conventional retorting.
4. Can microwave sterilization be used for processing all foods?
Many heat sensitive products made by conventional thermal treatments often result in considerable changes in the quality of the food and make these products unacceptable for consumption. The shorter time and more uniform volumetric heating of microwave processing offers major advantages over conventional steam retorting in producing a wide range of high quality shelf-stable food products: liquid, semi-solid and solid. At Washington State University, products such as salmon fillets, macaroni and cheese, massed potato and beef in gravy have been processed with proven safety; see examples reported in Guan et al., 2003 [6] and Tang et al., 2008 [7]. Advantages of microwave processing for a certain food product will derive from the specific product properties, state, shape and thickness as well as the processing system design. The 915 MHz Single-Mode Microwave Sterilization Technology developed at Washington State University can reduce the heating time of packaged foods to 1/4 to 1/10 of time required for conventional methods. The systems can be designed to work in batch or continuous mode. Compared with conventional food processing, microwave sterilization could potentially improve sensory, appearance and nutritional value [8].
Microwave sterilized salmon and rice
Conventionally processed (canned) salmon
At North Carolina State University, processes have been developed for sterilization of homogeneous [9] and particulate-containing [10] high and low acid food products. A wide variety of foods can benefit from this type of processing, provided they can be pumped and are receptive to microwave treatments. The uniqueness of microwave sterilization technology is that it can be applied to both solid and liquid foods as well complete meals sealed in multi-compartment trays. As with every processing technology, there may be some food products that have better performance and greater consumer acceptance while using other processing technologies.

5. Is food processed in microwave safe for consumers?
Yes, the food processed by this novel technology is safe for consumption. Because the microwave energy is changed to heat as soon as it is absorbed by the food, it cannot make the food radioactive or contaminated. When the microwave energy is turned off and the food is removed from the oven, there is no residual radiation remaining in the food. In this regard, a microwave oven is much like an electric light that stops glowing when it is turned off. [11].
6. What is the shelf life of microwave sterilized product?
The shelf life of a product is determined by its microbiological safety and sensory attributes. In general, microwave sterilization can achieve the same reduction of bacterial population as conventional retorting. The microwave sterilization process awaits regulatory acceptance that will make sure that sterilization of food is complete. Products intended for microwave sterilization are usually packaged in plastic trays or pouches. The ability of plastics to withstand oxygen permeation will affect the organoleptic or sensory acceptance of the product during storage. Normal shelf life expectancy of microwave-sterilized products prepackaged in plastic containers or pouches is 2-3 years or longer. With innovative plastic technologies coming to the market, the new generations of plastics may increase the expected shelf life even longer.
7. Are microwave sterilized products commercially available?
Yes. In-package microwave sterilized products are currently available in Europe. Examples of microwave sterilized products include different pasta dishes, pasta sauces, rice dishes, main dishes etc.
(http://www.topsfoods.com)
8. How are microwave processed foods stored?
Microwave sterilized foods can be stored at ambient temperatures and re-heated in the common household microwave prior to consumption. These products do not require refrigeration thereby cutting down the cost for food processors and distributors, as well as saving valuable refrigerator/freezer space for consumers.
9. Is commercial scale equipment available?
To the best of our knowledge the commercial equipment for microwave sterilization is currently available in Europe (Belgium, Holland, and Italy). US manufacturers have several types of microwave heating systems for food tempering, de-freezing and baking, as well as pasteurization and drying of semi-liquid products. None of this equipment is designed for high temperature microwave sterilization. The scale-up pilot microwave sterilization systems for prepackaged foods are currently available at Washington State University and for pumpable foods at North Carolina State University. Industrial Microwave Systems in Morrisville, NC is the 4

supplier of commercial microwave processing equipment for continuous flow thermal processing (heating, drying, pasteurization and sterilization) of foods and biomaterials.
10. Is microwave sterilization equipment safe to operate and/or is it safe for environment?
Yes, with using approved equipment and following established relevant state regulations, the microwave equipment is safe to operate and is safe for environment. Microwaves are confined in metal enclosures. Typical examples are domestic microwave ovens. Both domestic microwave oven and industrial microwave system are designed to meet or exceed stringent requirements for microwave leakage (5mW/cm2 measured 5 cm way from any part of the unit) [12].
11. How economical is microwave sterilization processing?
Conventional industrial heating method using steam or electric heaters may be more efficient compared to microwave heating in terms of converting the energy into a useful heat. It is difficult to estimate the total economical value for microwave sterilization technology when considering the complete chain from food product manufacturing, storage to distribution. But new values are added by using versatile novel technology that offers advantages over traditional processing such as: ability to heat solid, semi-solid and meal combination food products, more rapid heating and preservation of sensory and nutritional quality, possibility of ascetic packaging, high throughout of processed foods, possibility of incorporation of microwave processing equipment in the existing processing lines. The continued growth in the production of microwave sterilized foods products in TOPS foods (Olen, Belgium) provides strong evidence in favor of the economic viability of the new technology.
12. What regulatory acceptance is required for commercializing a microwave sterilization processed product?
All new technologies to produce low acid (pH>4.6) shelf-stable foods require FDA acceptance to ensure that the processed foods are free from pathogenic bacteria. The microwave sterilization consortium at Washington State University (http://www.microwaveheating.wsu.edu) is a fusion of food processing companies (Kraft Foods Global; Hormel Foods Corporation/Hormel Foods, LLC; Masterfoods USA, a division of Mars, Inc.; Ocean Beauty Seafood, Inc.), packaging and equipment companies (Rexam Containers, a division of Rexam Medical Packaging, Inc.; Graphic Packaging Company; The Ferrite Company) and the educational and government research institutions (Washington State University, Natick Army Center). The Consortium works under guidance of a technical consultant, the Seafood Products Association (Seattle, WA) towards FDA acceptance of the microwave sterilization process. Steps of the regulatory acceptance involve detection of cold spots in the food packages, temperature measurements and verification of desired microbiological lethality in the food products. Continuous flow sterilization adds another dimension of complexity to process verification, especially for products containing discrete food particles, since microbial lethality occurs under the condition of constant product pumping through processing equipment. The first FDA acceptance for a microwave-sterilized low acid 5

product has been granted, and techniques have been developed and implemented for process and product safety validation of particle containing products.
13. Are facilities available for product and process development before venturing into microwave sterilization processing?
There are several research facilities throughout the United States and Europe where food processors can evaluate microwave food processing technology. At Washington State University, pilot scale systems are available in the food processing pilot plant affiliated with the Department of Biological Systems Engineering and School of Food Science. Food processors that have signed a consortium agreement with Washington State University take advantage of the expertise of WSU faculty members and facilities to conduct confidential product evaluations for determining product physical and dielectrical properties, for predicting product behavior using developed computer simulation modeling packages, and for evaluating safety, quality, shelf life, and sensory attributes of the food product to obtain guidance on product development. Continuous flow microwave processing and aseptic packaging equipment is available for testing by industrial users at the Department of Food, Bioprocessing and Nutrition Sciences at North Carolina State University in Raleigh, NC.
Reference to commercial product or trade names is made with the understanding that no endorsement or discrimination by The Washington State University or by North Carolina State University is implied. For additional information, contact: Departments: Biological Systems Engineering, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164-6120 Department of Food, Bioprocessing and Nutrition Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695

Websites:

http://www.oardc.ohio-state.edu/sastry/USDA_project.htm http://www.microwaveheating.wsu.edu/ http://www.bsyse.wsu.edu/tang/ http://www.cals.ncsu.edu/food_science/PilotPlant/PilotPlantHomePage.htm http://www.bsyse.wsu.edu/, http://sfs.wsu.edu,

Useful links:

http://fst.osu.edu/CAPPS/index.html
Support of USDA Grant No. 2003-51110-02093 is gratefully acknowledged.

References: 6

1. Kinetics of Microbial Inactivation for Alternative Food Processing Technologies: Microwave and Radio Frequency Processing. U. S. Food and Drug Administration Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition June 2, 2000. 2. IMS, Industrial microwave heating systems, Morrisville, NC. http://www.industrialmicrowave.com/industries.htm. 3. Sairem, Neyron, France. http://www.sairem.com. 4. The Ferrite Company, Nashua, NH. http://www.ferriteinc.com 5. Thermex-Thermatron LP. Louisville, KY. http://www.thermex-thermatron.com/mw_ovens.htm. 6. Guan, D., Gray, P., Kang, DH, Tang, J., Shafer, B., Ito, K., Younce, F., and Yang, T.C.S. 2003. Microbiological validation of microwave-circulated water combination heating technology by inoculated pack studies, J. Food Sci. 68(4):1428-1432. 7. Tang, Z., Mikhaylenko, G., Liu, F., Mah, JH., Tang, J., Pandit, R., Younce, F., 2008. Microwave sterilization of sliced beef in gravy in 7 oz trays. J. Food Engineering. 89(4):375-383. 8. Guan, D., Plotka, V. C. F., Clark, S., and Tang J. 2002. Sensory evaluation of microwave treated macaroni and cheese. J. Food Processing and Preservation, 26:307-322. 9. Coronel, P., Truong, V.-D., Simunovic, J., and Sandeep, K. P. 2005. Aseptic processing of sweet potato purees using a continuous flow microwave system. J. Food Sci. 70 (9):E531-E536. 10. Kumar, P., Coronel, P., Simunovic, J.and Sandeep, K.P. 2007. Feasibility of Aseptic Processing of a Low-Acid Multiphase Food Product (salsa con queso) Using a Continuous Flow Microwave System. J Food Sci. 72 (3):E121-E124. 11. Gallawa J.C. and Microtech Productions. Copyright 1989-2005. http://www.gallawa.com/microtech/mwfaq.html. 12. Buffer, C.R. 1993. Microwave cooking and processing: engineering fundamentals for the food scientist. Van Nostrand Reinhold, New York.

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Instructions for use | English

mambaby.com

Contents
Training Brush & First Brush, Learn To Brush Set.. 3 Massaging Brush... 4 Oral Care Rabbit... 5 Bite & Brush, Starter... 6 Twister & Cooler... 7 Feeding Set & Babys Bowl... 8 Babys Fork & Spoon, Feeding Spoon Set, Soft Spoon Set.. 9 Learn To Drink Cup... 10 Anti-Colic... 12 Baby Bottle... 14 Hold Me-Bottle... 16 Trainer... 18 MAM Teats.... 20 Soft Spout for Hold Me Bottle.. 21 Soft Spout for Trainer... 22 Hold me! Baby handles... Original, Air, Classic, Relax, Soft, Start... 25 Night.... 26 MAM Clip & Cover... 27 MAM Pod... 29 Nipple Shields... 30 Manual Breast Pump... 31 Breastpads... 34 Sealing Discs... 35 Valve Set.... 36 Soft & Hard Spout for Learn To Drink Cup. 37
Training Brush & First Brush Learn To Brush Set
Attention!! This is not a toy always use with adult supervision. All materials meet the requirements of EN 71-3 INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE: Clean toothbrush regularly and between each use with warm water. Inspect toothbrush before and after each use and discard if worn or damaged. Do not boil, steam or microwave sterilise. Do not put in the dishwasher. Replace toothbrush regularly ( after months use). PLEASE NOTE: Toothbrushing should be supervised by an adult. Do not let your young child walk or crawl around with the toothbrush in his/her hand or mouth.

Massaging Brush

Attention!! This is not a toy always use with adult supervision. All materials meet the requirements of EN 71-3 INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE: Clean Gum massager regularly and between each use with warm water. Inspect Gum massager before and after each use and discard if worn or damaged. Do not boil, steam or microwave sterilise. Do not put in the dishwasher. Replace toothbrush gum massager regularly ( after months use). PLEASE NOTE: Toothbrushing should be supervised by an adult. Do not let your young child walk or crawl around with the gum massager in his/her hand or mouth.

Oral Care Rabbit

INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE: Wash teething cloth before first use. Clean regularly and between each use with warm water. Simply put your fingers in the rabbits ears and softly rub your babys teeth or gums. Machine washable up to 40C , can be tumble dried (low temperature only) and ironed (low temperature only). Can be sterilised by boiling, steam or microwave steam sterilising but if you choose to sterilise the material may shrink and/or discolour slightly. Not usable for cold water sterilisation. Do not dry clean. Do not bleach. For your childs safety WARNING! Inspect Teething Cloth before and after each use and discard if worn or damaged! Not usable for cold water sterilisation. Do not dry clean. Fabric Contents: Cotton Terry (80% Cotton, 20% Polyester), Microfibre (70% Polyester, 30% Polyamide), Lycra Knitted (92% Polyester, 8% Spandex). THE MAM FIRST TEETHING CLOTH MEETS THE REQUIREMENTS OF EN 71, EN 14362-1 and DIN 53160-1974.
Bite & Brush, Starter
INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE: Sterilise the MAM teether before first use. Dishwasher safe (in top section to a max. temperature of 65C). Clean regularly with warm soapy water. Can be sterilised by boiling, cold water method, steam and microwave steam sterilising. For your childs safety WARNING! Inspect before and after each use and discard if worn or damaged! Bite & Brush, Starter: This product meets the requirements of EN 71. Teether & Clip: For more information please see MAM Clip & Cover

Twister & Cooler

INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE: Wash before first use and regulary with hot water and mild detergents. Dishwasher safe (in top section to a max. temperature of 65C). For optimum cooling effect, put the MAM teether in the refrigerator for one hour. NOT IN THE FREEZER COMPARTMENT. For your childs safety WARNING! Inspect before and after each use and discard if worn or damaged! Do not boil, steam or microwave sterilise. For disinfection wash with hot water. The MAM Teether is for children between 03 years. Older children and adults can bite the waterfilled section. The purified water is harmless. Cooler: This product meets the requirements of EN 71.
Feeding Set & Babys Bowl
INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE: Wash before first use Dishwasher safe up to 65C ( removable lid of feeding bowl is not dishwasher safe ) Can be put into the microwave remove lid first. Always stir heated food to ensure even heat distribution. Do not store or use with hot (above 40C) food. For your childs safety and health WARNING! Always use this product with adult supervision. Before each use, inspect the product. Throw away at the first sign of damage or weakness. Always check food temperature before feeding. This product meets the requirements of EN 14372.

All Cup parts must be disassembled before heating (especially microwave heating) or cooling. Stir thoroughly after heating to evenly distribute heat. After heating allow Cup to cool. For your childs safety WARNING! Always use this product with adult supervision. Continuous and prolonged sucking of fluids will cause tooth decay. Always check food temperature before feeding. Keep all components not in use out of the reach of children.

Anti-Colic

THE PRODUCT MEETS EN14350. Please retain instructions for future use. Bottle teat fits all MAM wide neck bottles and trainers. INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE: Clean before first and each use. Before first use wash all components separately in boiling water for 5 minutes. This is to ensure hygiene. Check all components before each use and throw away at the first signs of damage or weakness. To ensure proper cleaning/sterilising all bottle parts MUST be disassembled. Cleaning/sterilising while assembled can damage the bottle. Dishwasher safe ( max. 65 C) but food colourings may discolour components. Do not use abrasive cleaning agents. Only soft bristle brushes or soft sponges should be used. Hard scourers may scratch the plastic. Sterilise using one of the following methods: steam sterilizing (electric or microwave according to manufacturers instructions), boiling in water for at least 5 minutes or liquid sterilising solution. Do not leave single bottle parts in direct sunlight or heat, or leave in sterilising solution for longer than recommended, as this my affect the product function. The bottle is made of polypropylene which is hygienic, easy to clean and relatively soft. Avoid any heavy pressure on it, as this could affect the function. Do not use pin or sharp object to enlarge feeding hole. Use sugar free food or liquids only. To avoid injury, do not let baby walk with bottle. Do not put your baby to bed with bottle. Prolonged contact with liquids may cause severe tooth decay. HEATING INSTRUCTIONS: NEVER pour boiling water into the bottle. NEVER heat or cool a sealed bottle. Remove the protective cap and teat before heating, especially before microwave heating. Stir thoroughly after heating to evenly distribute heat. Allow the standing time recommended by the microwave manufacturer. Wrap cloth or towel around bottom of bottle and shake to absorb any excess water after warming in a bottle warmer or boiling water. 12
For your childs safety and health WARNING! Always use this product with adult supervision. Never use feeding teats as a soother. Continuous and prolonged sucking of fluids will cause tooth decay. Always check food temperature before feeding. Keep all components not in use out of the reach of children.
1) Place silicone valve into bottom ring. 2) Press down on raised perimeter of silicone valve. 3) Screw assembled base onto bottom of bottle in slow steady manner. 4) Insert teat into top of bottle screw ring until you hear a click.

Baby Bottle

THE PRODUCT MEETS EN14350 Please retain instructions for future use. Bottle teat fits all MAM wide neck bottles and trainers. INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE: Clean before first and each use. Before first use wash all components separately in boiling water for 5 minutes. This is to ensure hygiene. Check all components before each use and throw away at the first signs of damage or weakness. To ensure proper cleaning/sterilising all bottle parts MUST be disassembled. Cleaning/sterilising while assembled can damage the bottle. Dishwasher safe ( max. 65 C) but food colourings may discolour components. Do not use abrasive cleaning agents Only soft bristle brushes or soft sponges should be used. Hard scourers may scratch the plastic. Sterilise using one of the following methods: steam sterilizing (electric or microwave according to manufacturers instructions), boiling in water for at least 5 minutes or liquid sterilising solution. Do not leave single bottle parts in direct sunlight or heat, or leave in sterilising solution for longer than recommended, as this my affect the product function. The bottle is made of polypropylene which is hygienic, easy to clean and relatively soft. Avoid any heavy pressure on it, as this could affect the function. Do not use pin or sharp object to enlarge feeding hole. Use sugar free food or liquids only. When first used and sometimes for later usages, the slit in the ventilation (the raised, slit bubble on the underside of the teat base) can stick together, therefore not allowing air to enter the bottle during feeding and as a result, the teat collapsing. Slowly brush over the bubble (ventilation) a few times with your thumb or fingers to re-open the slit. To avoid injury, do not let baby walk with bottle. Do not put your baby to bed with bottle. Prolonged contact with liquids may cause severe tooth decay. HEATING INSTRUCTIONS: NEVER pour boiling water into the bottle. NEVER heat or cool a sealed bottle. Remove the protective cap and teat before heating, especially before microwave heating. Stir thoroughly after heating to evenly distribute heat. Allow the standing time recommended by the microwave manufacturer.

For your childs safety and health WARNING! Always use this product with adult supervision. Never use feeding teats as a soother. Continuous and prolonged sucking of fluids will cause tooth decay. Always check food temperature before feeding. Keep all components not in use out of the reach of children. Assembling: Please ensure you fully pull the teat through the screw cap so it clicks into position.

Hold Me-Bottle

THE PRODUCT MEETS EN 14350. Please retain instructions for future use. The spout / teat and handles can be used on all MAM wide neck bottles. INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE: Clean before first and each use. Before first use wash all components separately in boiling water for 5 minutes. This is to ensure hygiene. Check all components before each use and throw away at the first signs of damage or weakness. To ensure proper cleaning/sterilising all bottle parts MUST be disassembled. Cleaning/sterilising while assembled can damage the bottle. Dishwasher safe ( max. 65 C) but food colourings may discolour components. Do not use abrasive cleaning agents. Only soft bristle brushes or soft sponges should be used. Hard scourers may scratch the plastic. Sterilise using one of the following methods: steam sterilizing (electric or microwave according to manufacturers instructions), boiling in water for at least 5 minutes or liquid sterilising solution. After boiling or sterilizing allow the spout / teat to cool. Do not leave single bottle parts in direct sunlight or heat, or leave in sterilising solution for longer than recommended, as this my affect the product function. The bottle is made of polypropylene which is hygienic, easy to clean and relatively soft. Avoid any heavy pressure on it, as this could affect the function. Do not use pin or sharp object to enlarge feeding hole. Store teats/ spouts in a dry, sealed container. Insert teat/spout into top of bottle screw ring until you hear a click. Do not store or use with hot (above 40C) food. When first used and sometimes for later usages, the slit in the ventilation (the raised, slit bubble on the underside of the teat base) can stick together, therefore not allowing air to enter the bottle during feeding and as a result, the teat collapsing. Slowly brush over the bubble (ventilation) a few times with your thumb or fingers to re-open the slit. To avoid injury, do not let baby walk with trainer. Do not put your baby to bed with bottle. Prolonged contact with liquids may cause severe tooth decay. 16
HEATING INSTRUCTIONS: NEVER pour boiling water into the bottle. NEVER heat or cool a sealed bottle. Remove the protective cap and spout/teat before heating, especially before microwave heating. Stir thoroughly after heating to evenly distribute heat. Allow the standing time recommended by the microwave manufacturer. For your childs safety and health WARNING! Always use this product with adult supervision. Never use feeding teats as a soother. Continuous and prolonged sucking of fluids will cause tooth decay. Always check food temperature before feeding. Keep all components not in use out of the reach of children. Assembling: pull the spout / teat into the screw ring till it clicks into position. Place the handles over the bottle neck and screw the spout / teat onto the bottle tightly.

Trainer

THE PRODUCT MEETS EN 14350. Please retain instructions for future use. The handles are compatible with all MAM wide neck bottles and trainers, the spout and valve with MAM Baby Bottles and trainers. INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE: Clean before first and each use. Before first use wash all components separately in boiling water for 5 minutes. This is to ensure hygiene. Check all components before each use and throw away at the first signs of damage or weakness. To ensure proper cleaning/sterilising all bottle parts MUST be disassembled. Cleaning/sterilising while assembled can damage the bottle. Dishwasher safe ( max. 65 C) but food colourings may discolour components. Do not use abrasive cleaning agents. Only soft bristle brushes or soft sponges should be used. Hard scourers may scratch the plastic. Sterilise using one of the following methods: steam sterilizing (electric or microwave according to manufacturers instructions), boiling in water for at least 5 minutes or liquid sterilising solution. After boiling or sterilizing allow the spout to cool. Do not leave single bottle parts in direct sunlight or heat, or leave in sterilising solution for longer than recommended, as this my affect the product function. The trainer is made of polypropylene which is hygienic, easy to clean and relatively soft. Avoid any heavy pressure on it, as this could affect the function. Ensure that the hole is not blocked. Do not store or use with hot (above 40C) food. Store teats/ spouts in a dry, sealed container. To improve the spill proofness after filling we recommend to squeeze the assembled spout underneath the top tightly. This creates a vacuum which prevents leaking. Always check if spout and valve are in the right position (click). The Valve will not remain leak-proof for carbonated drinks. Although the spout is spill proof, a few residual drops may remain in the spout after drinking. If shaken heavily this small amount may drip out, but no more. Do not twist the valve when removing from the spout, simply pull. To avoid injury, do not let baby walk with trainer. Do not put your baby to bed with trainer. Prolonged contact with liquids may cause severe tooth decay.
HEATING INSTRUCTIONS: NEVER pour boiling water into the trainer. NEVER heat or cool a sealed trainer. Remove the protective cap and spout before heating, especially before microwave heating. Stir thoroughly after heating to evenly distribute heat. Allow the standing time recommended by the microwave manufacturer. For your childs safety and health WARNING! Always use this product with adult supervision. Continuous and prolonged sucking of fluids will cause tooth decay. Always check food temperature before feeding. Keep all components not in use out of the reach of children. Assembling: push the valve into the spout till it clicks into position, then pull the spout with the valve into the screw ring till it clicks into position. Place the handles over the bottle neck and screw the spout onto the bottle tightly.

MAM Teat

THE PRODUCT MEETS EN 14350. Please retain instructions for future use. Bottle teat fits all MAM wide neck bottles and trainers. INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE: Clean before first and each use. Before first use and regularly place in boiling water for 5 minutes. This is to ensure hygiene. Check teat carefully before each use, especially when the child has teeth. Pull the teat in all directions and throw away at the first signs of damage or weakness. Dishwasher safe ( max. 65 C) but food colourings may discolour components. Do not use abrasive cleaning agents. Only soft bristle brushes or soft sponges should be used. Sterilise using one of the following methods: steam sterilizing (electric or microwave according to manufacturers instructions), boiling in water for at least 5 minutes or liquid sterilising solution. Do not leave the teat in direct sunlight or heat, or leave in sterilising solution for longer than recommended, as this my affect the product function. Do not use pin or sharp object to enlarge feeding hole. Store teats in a dry, sealed container. Insert teat into top of bottle screw ring until you hear a click. Use sugar free food or liquids only. NEVER heat or cool a sealed bottle. Remove the protective cap and teat before heating, especially before microwave heating. Stir thoroughly after heating to evenly distribute heat. When first used and sometimes for later usages, the slit in the ventilation (the raised, slit bubble on the underside of the teat base) can stick together, therefore not allowing air to enter the bottle during feeding and as a result, the teat collapsing. Slowly brush over the bubble (ventilation) a few times with your thumb or fingers to re-open the slit. For your childs safety and health WARNING! Always use this product with adult supervision. Continuous and prolonged sucking of fluids will cause tooth decay. Always check food temperature before feeding. Never use feeding teats as a soother. 20
Soft Spout for Hold Me Bottle

THE PRODUCT MEETS EN 14350. Please retain instructions for future use. The spout can be used on all MAM wide neck bottles. INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE: Clean before first and each use Before first use wash separately in boiling water for 5 minutes. This is to ensure hygiene. Check spout carefully before each use and throw away at the first signs of damage or weakness. Dishwasher safe ( max. 65 C) but food colourings may discolour components. Do not use abrasive cleaning agents. Only soft bristle brushes or soft sponges should be used. Sterilise using one of the following methods: steam sterilizing (electric or microwave according to manufacturers instructions), boiling in water for at least 5 minutes or liquid sterilising solution. After boiling or sterilizing allow the spout to cool. Do not leave spout and valve in direct sunlight or heat, or leave in sterilising solution for longer than recommended, as this my affect the product function. Do not store or use with hot (above 40C) food. Store teats in a dry, sealed container. Insert spout into top of screw ring until you hear a click. To avoid injury, do not let baby walk with bottle or trainer. Do not put your baby to bed with trainer. Prolonged contact with liquids may cause severe tooth decay. NEVER heat or cool a sealed bottle or trainer. Remove the protective cap and spout before heating, especially before microwave heating. Stir thoroughly after heating to evenly distribute heat. For your childs safety and health WARNING! Always use this product with adult supervision. Continuous and prolonged sucking of fluids will cause tooth decay. Always check food temperature before feeding. 21

Soft Spout for Trainer

THE PRODUCT MEETS EN 14350. Please retain instructions for future use. The spout and valve are compatible with all MAM Baby Bottles and trainers. INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE: Clean before first and each use Before first use wash all components separately in boiling water for 5 minutes. This is to ensure hygiene. Check all components before each use and throw away at the first signs of damage or weakness. To ensure proper cleaning/sterilising all parts MUST be disassembled Cleaning/sterilising while assembled can damage the product. Dishwasher safe ( max. 65 C) but food colourings may discolour components. Do not use abrasive cleaning agents. Only soft bristle brushes or soft sponges should be used. Sterilise using one of the following methods: steam sterilizing (electric or microwave according to manufacturers instructions), boiling in water for at least 5 minutes or liquid sterilising solution. After boiling or sterilizing allow the spout to cool. Do not leave spout and valve in direct sunlight or heat, or leave in sterilising solution for longer than recommended, as this my affect the product function. Ensure that the hole is not blocked. Do not store or use with hot (above 40C) food. To improve the spill proofness after filling we recommend to squeeze the assembled spout underneath the top tightly. This creates a vacuum which prevents leaking. Always check if spout and valve are in the right position (click). The Valve will not remain leak-proof for carbonated drinks. Although the spout is spill proof, a few residual drops may remain in the spout after drinking. If shaken heavily this small amount may drip out, but no more. Do not twist the valve when removing from the spout, simply pull. To avoid injury, do not let baby walk with bottle or trainer. Do not put your baby to bed with bottle or trainer. Prolonged contact with liquids may cause severe tooth decay. NEVER heat or cool a sealed trainer. Remove the protective cap and spout before heating, especially before microwave heating. Stir thoroughly after heating to evenly distribute heat.

For your childs safety and health WARNING! Always use this product with adult supervision. Continuous and prolonged sucking of fluids will cause tooth decay. Always check food temperature before feeding. Push the valve into the spout till it clicks into position, then pull the spout with the valve into the screw ring till it clicks into position.

click!

Hold me! Baby handles
The Handles are compatible with the MAM bottles and trainers which meet the requirements of EN 14350. Please retain these instructions for future use. Fitting to the MAM Trainer & all MAM Wide Neck Bottles. INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE: Clean before first and each use. Dishwasher safe ( max. 65 C) Before first use and regularly place in boiling water for 5 minutes. This is to ensure hygiene. Suitable for use in microwave but remove the gripper handles first. Only heat bottle / cup / trainer completely opened. Stir thoroughly after heating to evenly distribute heat. Always check food temperature before feeding. Do not let your young child walk or crawl around with the product in his/her hand or mouth. The handles are made from a special highgrade plastic which is hygienic, easy to clean, soft and resistant. Avoid heavy pressure this could affect the efficiency.
Original, Air, Classic, Relax, Soft, Start
This product meets the requirements of EN 1400. INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE: Before first use boil in water for 5 minutes or sterilise. Allow to stand for a further 5 minutes before giving it to baby. During sterilisation a small amount of water may enter the teat. This can be expelled by squeezing the teat. Clean before each use. Never dip the teat in sweet substances. This can cause tooth decay. To ensure safety and hygiene replace the soother every 12 months. Do not worry if the soother becomes lodged in the mouth. It can not be swallowed and is designed to cope with such an event. Remove as gently as possible. MAM recommends giving up soother usage at 3 years of age. For your childs safety WARNING! Never attach ribbons or cords to a soother, your child may be strangled by them. Inspect carefully before each use, especially when the child has teeth. Pull the soother in all directions. Throw away at the first signs of damage or weakness. Do not leave a soother in direct sunlight or near a source of heat or leave in sterilising solution for longer than recommended, as this may weaken the teat.

This product meets the requirements of EN 1400. INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE: Before first use boil in water for 5 minutes or sterilise. Allow to stand for a further 5 minutes before giving it to baby. During sterilisation a small amount of water may enter the teat. This can be expelled by squeezing the teat. Clean before each use. Never dip the teat in sweet substances. This can cause tooth decay. To ensure safety and hygiene replace the soother every 12 months. Do not worry if the soother becomes lodged in the mouth. It can not be swallowed and is designed to cope with such an event. Remove as gently as possible. Keep the soother in daylight not direct sunlight during the day so that the knob glows in the dark. MAM recommends giving up soother usage at 3 years of age. For your childs safety WARNING! Never attach ribbons or cords to a soother, your child may be strangled by them. Inspect carefully before each use, especially when the child has teeth. Pull the soother in all directions. Throw away at the first signs of damage or weakness. Do not leave a soother in direct sunlight or near a source of heat or leave in sterilising solution for longer than recommended, as this may weaken the teat.

MAM Clip & Cover

This product meets the requirements of EN 12586: 2007. INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE: When used with a MAM soother, place the transparent ring over the knob of the soother (Diagram A). When used with a soother with a ring there are two ways to fi x the soother to the soother saver: 1. place the transparent ring over the whole soother ring (Diagram B) or 2. thread the transparent ring through the soother ring (Diagram C). The clip fastener is opened by moving the slider towards the leash and closed by clicking the slider towards the rounded end (Diagram D).
The soother holder should only be attached to garments. The clip fastener should always be stored and cleaned in the open position to avoid the clip spring losing its strength. Do not store in the closed position. Regularly clean the soother saver with warm water and a mild cleaning agent. Rinse thoroughly. DO NOT BOIL, steam or microwave sterilize. Do not use solvents or abrasive cleaning agents as these could damage the product. Clean the teat cover in the same way as the soother holder. Remove the teat cover from the leash when sterilizing, boiling (5 min.) or dishwashing. Open the teat cover by pushing the back wings together. Position the teat cover directly over the soother teat and close. The teat cover is securely attached when it snaps together around the base of the teat, directly behind the soother shield. 27
For your childs safety WARNING! Before each use check carefully. Throw away at the fi rst sign of damage or weakness. Never lengthen the soother holder! Never attach to cords, ribbons, laces or loose parts of clothing. The child may be strangled. The use of a soother saver when baby is sleeping or in bed, crib or cot is not recommended. Ensure both ends of the soother saver are fastened before leaving your child unattended. The soother saver should not be used as a teether or toy. Keep the removable teat cover out of the reach of children.

MAM Pod

Materials conform to EN 71-3. INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE & WARNINGS: Clean before each use by rinsing the MAM Pod under warm water using mild soap or hand dishwashing detergent. Do not use the rough side of sponge. Rinse thoroughly dry afterwards. The MAM Pod is not a toy. Do not leave your child unattended with it. Never lengthen the leash as this could present a strangulation danger. Throw away at first signs of damage.

Nipple Shields

Cleaning and sterilising: Clean the nipple shields in water or gentle cleaning agents. Boil the nipple shields after each use for 5 minutes or sterilise them in a vaporiser or steam steriliser. In order to store the sterilised nipple shields hygienically, keep them in the closed sterilised box. INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE: Inspect the Nipple Shields before each use and replace at the first signs of damage. Moisten the reverse of the shield with a small amount of breast milk for an optimal hold on the breast. Before giving baby the breast, check that the shield fits the nipple and is holding well. Before first use contact a midwife or health consultant. For your childs safety WARNING! Do not use the nipple shields as a soother or teat. Do not cut the shape of the nipple shield. Keep out of the reach of children.

Manual Breast Pump

II a. II f.

IV FUNNEL

II PUMP AND HANDLE I SCREW RING

I b. II c. II b. II d.

INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE: Parts: Diagram Manual Breast Pump The Manual Breast Pump is simple to disassemble and assemble, it consists of only 4 parts. I.) Screw ring II.) Pump and handle* III.) Valve (silicone) IV.) Funnel *(one piece pump chamber (2a.) and handle- THIS IS DESIGNED NOT TO COME APART and will be refered to in these instructions as handle). Your new Manual Breast Pump comes fully assembled, and must be disassembled and cleaned before first use. Disassembly (for cleaning) Diagrams 1-4 1. first remove the funnel. You will find this easier if you twist and gently pull. 2. hold the handle firmly (see diagram) and separate the handle from the screw ring by pulling away and up. 3.unscrew the screw ring (I.) from the Anti-Colic (V.). 4. pull off the valve (III.).

III VALVE (SILICONE)

V ANTI-COLIC Flasche
Cleaning and Sterilising Before the first use and after each use, all 4 parts should be SEPARATED and cleaned. To clean, use warm soapy water and a gentle sponge or cloth or place the parts on the top dishwasher shelf.* The dial (IIe.) on the handle has a silicone cover which could come off when hand washing. This is easily pushed back on. All parts can be sterilised,* but DO NOT STERILISE THE PUMP HANDLE IN THE MICROWAVE, the spring (IId.) under the handle may cause the handle to melt. * Whilst the handle can be placed on the top dishwasher shelf and steam sterilised, it can affect performance over time. Therefore, we recommend washing in warm soapy water as this part does not come in to contact with your milk. Assembly: Diagrams 58 Before assembling the pump, the Anti-Colic must be assembled (see diagram 13-16). The pump is assembled in 4 simple steps: attach screw ring and handle. (diagram 5). Place and locate the small central stem on top of the screw ring (Ib.) over the tube in the handle (IIf.) Click the notch (Ia.) of the screw ring into the small hole (IIc.) in the tab of the handle (II). push on valve (diagram 6) screw onto Anti-Colic (diagram 7) Gently push funnel into place so that it is fixed, but can rotate. DO NOT force the funnel in. (diagram 8) Usage: Diagrams 911 Diagram 9 The funnel neck is angled and can be turned 360. Before starting to express turn thefunnel so that your arm can rest on your side, or you find a position that is comfortable. Turning the funnel for different expression positions can also help prevent clogged milk ducts. Integrated in the funnel mouth are four soft cushions (IVa.) which make the funnel comfortable and gently cling to your breast for effective suction. Should the seal be broken whilst expressing i.e. the funnel come off your breast, lean slightly forward and the expressed milk will run down the funnel neck into the bottle. Milk that runs onto your breast in such a situation should be dried off, before repositioning the funnel to continue expression. 32

Diagram 10 Turn the dial (IIe.) to your preferred expression strength. From left to right along the curve above the dial, the suction strength increases. To stimulate let-down you may find it useful to use a stronger suction strength, which can then be reduced when your milk has let down. You can of course also adjust the rhythm of expression with your pumping hand. Diagram 11 The single position to the far right holds the suction, i.e. your breast in the milk release position for a few seconds or until you release the handle. This position can be used to keep milk running from your breast for longer with just one pump action or as a way of stimulating let-down. This may or may not be comfortable for you. Be careful when using this function. If it is uncomfortable for too long it could lead to bruised milk ducts. If you are having problems expressing or stimulating concentrate more on relaxing and thinking of your baby, or seek professional advice. Milk Storage (Diagram 12) The Anti-Colic with the expressed milk can be sealed either with the bottle screw ring, teat and protective cap or with the bottle screw ring and sealing disc. Breast milk can be stored in the bottle in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Milk can be stored in the freezer for 3 months: it is best to use special sterilised sealable containers or sterile milk storage bags. For bottle instructions please see refer to point Anti-Colic. sealing cap Silk Teat screw ring holder bottle valve base 33

Breast Pads

Warning: Keep out of the reach of children.

Sealing Discs

The sealing discs are compatible with the MAM bottles and trainers which meet the requirements of EN 14350. INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE: Clean before first and each use Check sealing disc before each use and throw away at the first signs of damage or weakness. Dishwasher safe ( max. 65 C) but food colourings may discolour sealing discs. Do not use abrasive cleaning agents as these could damage the product. Sterilise using one of the following methods: steam sterilizing (electric or microwave according to manufacturers instructions), boiling in water. Do not leave sealing discs in direct sunlight or heat, or leave in sterilising solution for longer than recommended, as this may weaken the sealing discs. Store sealing discs in a dry, sealed container. For your childs safety and health WARNING! Keep this components out of the reach of children. Assembling: Pull sealing disc through the screw ring and click into position

Valve Set

This product meets the requirements of Standard EN 14350. INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE: To assemble pull the spout into the screw ring till it engages, then push the valve tightly into the designated holder on the underside of the spout. Screw spout onto cup tightly. Clean before fi rst and each use. Valve is dishwasher safe (up to 65C). Food colourings may discolour components. Do not store or use for hot (above 40C) beverages. The cup will not remain spill-proof if used for carbonated drinks. Do not put your baby to bed with cup. Prolonged contact with liquids may cause severe tooth decay. Pay special attention to the area around the silicone valve and its plastic holder. Do not clean the silicone valve with rough/hard scourers. Valve is not compatible with other drinking containers. All Cup parts must be disassembled before heating (especially microwave heating) or cooling. For your childs safety and health WARNING! Always use this product with adult supervision. Continuous and prolonged sucking of fl uids will cause tooth decay. Always check food temperature before feeding.

Soft & Hard Spout for Learn To Drink Cup
This product meets the requirements of Standard EN 14350. INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE: To assemble pull the spout into the screw ring till it engages, then push the valve tightly into the designated holder on the underside of the spout. Screw spout onto cup tightly. Clean before fi rst and each use. Check spout before each use and throw away at the fi rst signs of damage or weakness. Spout is dishwasher safe (up to 65C). Food colourings may discolour components. Do not use abrasive cleaning agents. Sterilise using one of the following methods: steam sterilizing (electric or microwave according to manufacturers instructions), boiling in water or liquid sterilising solution. After boiling or sterilizing allow the spout to cool. Do not leave spout in direct sunlight or heat, as this may affect the product function. Ensure that the holes of the spout are not blocked. Do not store or use for hot (above 40C) beverages. The cup will not remain spill-proof if used for carbonated drinks. The spout is only spill proof when used together with the valve. However, a few residual drops may remain in the spout after drinking. If shaken heavily this small amount may drip out, but no more. To avoid injury, do not let toddler walk with the cup. Do not put your baby to bed with cup. Prolonged contact with liquids may cause severe tooth decay. Parts are not compatible with other drinking containers. All Cup parts must be disassembled before heating (especially microwave heating) or cooling. Stir thoroughly after heating to evenly distribute heat. After heating allow Cup to cool. For your childs safety and health WARNING! Always use this product with adult supervision. Continuous and prolonged sucking of fluids will cause tooth decay. Always check food temperature before feeding. 37