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18/06/2015

Study Highlights Risks Of Purchasing Breast Milk

A study by scientists from Queen Mary University of London has warned of the risks associated with people purchasing human breast milk. Sales of the milk have become popular with fitness fanatics, those suffering from chronic disease and fetishists, but a warning has now been issued to those consuming the product.

Published in the Journal of the Royal Society of Medicine, the team described it as a potentially dangerous situation. For those adults buying the breast milk, many websites describe it as a 'clean' super food, that can help with a variety of ailments as well as help to increase body muscle and boost immunity. However, those behind the study have said there is no clinical evidence to support the claims. Instead, it actually presents more risks as the milk purchased online or in an unpasteurised state can be dangerous.

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For example, women could fail to sanitise properly when producing milk, or the equipment used may not be sterilised properly. Similarly, an incorrect or prolonged storage and transportation of milk can result in buyers being exposed to bacterial food-borne illnesses. It isn't just a bacterial risk, however, as the scientists believe a lack of pasteurisation and testing can also provide a risk of infectious diseases, including hepatitis, HIV and syphilis.

Dr Sarah Steele, lead researcher, Queen Mary University of London, explained: "Nutritionally there is less protein in breast milk than other milks like cow's milk. Potential buyers should be made aware that there is no scientific evidence that adult consumption of human milk for medicinal properties offers anything more than a placebo effect. Moreover, human breast milk is potentially very hazardous if used to replace a healthy balanced diet.

"While many online mums claim they have been tested for viruses during pregnancy, many do not realise that serological screening needs to be undertaken regularly. Sexual and other activities in the postpartum period may expose the woman expressing to viruses that they may unwittingly pass on to consumers of the milk."

The study has now called for health professionals and regulators to issue public guidance against the purchasing of human milk from internet sources for adult as well as infant feeding.

(JP)

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"A study by scientists from Queen Mary University of London has warned of the risks associated with people purchasing human breast milk."