Bacterial Biofilm Formation on Infant Pacifiers and Its Impact on Feeding Habits: Evaluation of the Antimicrobial Activity of Selected Plant Extracts

Abstract

Pacifiers are widely used as soothing devices for infants, but their frequent exposure to saliva and environmental contaminants makes them potential reservoirs for microbial colonization. The present study aimed to investigate bacterial contamination and biofilm formation on infant pacifiers and to evaluate the antimicrobial activity of selected plant extracts. Pacifiers were collected from infants aged 6 months to 2 years, and bacterial isolates were identified using morphological and biochemical methods. The antimicrobial activity of Prosopis juliflora and Allium cepa extracts was tested using the agar well diffusion method. Results revealed significant bacterial contamination, including Staphylococcus spp., Streptococcus spp., Escherichia coli, Klebsiella spp., Pseudomonas spp., and Bacillus spp. The plant extracts showed dose-dependent antibacterial activity. The findings highlight the importance of proper hygiene practices and suggest that plant-based antimicrobials can be effective alternatives for controlling microbial contamination on pacifiers.