Breastfeeding Medicine editorial examines risks associated with Internet-purchased breast milk

The practice of breast milk sharing among mothers has evolved into an Internet-based marketplace in which this valuable commodity is being bought and sold not only to feed babies, but as a "natural superfood" for body builders and athletes. An Editorial in Breastfeeding Medicine, the official journal of the Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine published by Mary Ann Liebert, Inc., publishers, examines the relatively safe milk exchange models and the risks associated with breast milk purchase on the Internet. The article is available free on the Breastfeeding Medicine website until July 16, 2015.

"Clearly, breast milk has become a commodity," says Arthur I. Eidelman, MD, Editor-in-Chief of Breastfeeding Medicine, in the Editorial "The Ultimate Social Network: Breast Milk Sharing via the Internet." As women recognize its commercial value, "the altruistic donation of breast milk to regulated nonprofit milk banks is being threatened." Dr. Eidelman comments on the potential risks of Internet-purchased breast milk, including dilution with cow's milk or bacterial contamination due to improper storage and refrigeration.