When it comes to feeding your baby, buying breast milk online from anonymous sources may not be the best option. It’s surprising, isn’t it? What could possibly be unsafe about acquiring bodily fluids from strangers on the internet? Let’s tackle the most glaring concern: you have no way of knowing the health status of the individual supplying the milk. Why would you even consider giving your infant something sourced from an unknown person’s body?
Recent research has revealed that 10% of breast milk bought online is diluted with cow’s milk. Experts advise against introducing cow’s milk to infants before their first birthday due to its high levels of protein and minerals, which can strain a baby’s immature kidneys. Additionally, cow’s milk lacks the necessary amounts of iron, vitamin C, and other nutrients essential for infants, potentially leading to iron-deficiency anemia. Yet, one in ten samples purchased online has been found to be mixed with a substance that is inappropriate for babies. This is concerning.
Upon exploring a popular online breast milk marketplace, it’s difficult to understand why any parent would feel at ease making a purchase. One site promotes itself with the tagline: “Buy, sell or donate breast milk with our discreet classifieds system in a clean, safe and private way.” While discreet and private may be true, the claims about cleanliness and safety are harder to substantiate.
Sellers on these platforms must agree to certain terms before they can list their milk, including pasteurization guidelines and best practices for handling and storing the milk. However, these are not strictly enforced requirements. It falls on the buyer to conduct their own due diligence by requesting screening documents from sellers. A quick look at available listings shows many claim their milk is “safe and healthy,” but not all can provide the necessary proof. According to a study cited by the Washington Post, a staggering three-fourths of samples purchased online were found to contain harmful bacteria, including salmonella. The study’s author stated, “It’s pretty clear, based on the findings of this and our prior study that looked at infectious disease risks, that obtaining milk for your babies that way is not a safe practice or recommended.”
While the “breast is best” philosophy is widely accepted, it’s crucial to recognize the risks of sourcing milk from unverified donors. For mothers struggling with milk production, opting for a screened breast milk bank is a much safer alternative than resorting to online purchases. It’s essential to prioritize your child’s health and well-being over convenience.
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In summary, while the idea of buying breast milk online may seem appealing, the risks involved are significant. The health of your child is paramount, and it is advisable to seek out safer alternatives.