Can you sell breast milk on FB marketplace?

The Controversial Market for Breast Milk on Facebook Marketplace
In recent years, the sale of breast milk has emerged as a unique side hustle for some lactating women, with platforms like Facebook Marketplace becoming a popular venue for these transactions. While the practice is legal, it raises significant ethical and health concerns that warrant a closer examination.
The Demand and Supply Dilemma
Human milk banks, which are designed to provide breast milk for premature and sick infants, often face shortages. This has led some mothers to seek alternative avenues for their surplus milk, including selling it through social media platforms. Reports indicate that women are successfully selling their breast milk for prices ranging from $1 to $2 per ounce, tapping into a market that, while niche, is undeniably present.
Health Risks and Ethical Concerns
Despite the potential for profit, experts caution against the sale of breast milk outside regulated environments. The primary concern is the risk of transmitting infectious diseases, as unregulated sales do not guarantee the safety or quality of the milk being sold. There are fears that buyers may unknowingly purchase contaminated milk, which could pose serious health risks to infants.
Moreover, Facebook has specific policies that complicate these transactions. The platform prohibits the sale of healthcare-related items, which includes breast pumps and potentially breast milk itself, although enforcement can vary. This creates a gray area where sellers may still find ways to market their milk, but they do so at the risk of having their listings removed or facing account penalties.
Community and Support
For many mothers, selling breast milk can also be a way to connect with others in similar situations. Facebook groups dedicated to breastfeeding and milk sharing often serve as support networks where women can share experiences, advice, and resources. However, the mixed views from experts highlight the need for caution. While some mothers find it altruistic to share their milk with those in need, the potential for harm cannot be overlooked.
Conclusion
Selling breast milk on Facebook Marketplace is a complex issue that intertwines the desire for supplemental income with serious health implications. While it is legal and there is a market for it, the lack of regulation and the associated risks make it a contentious topic. Mothers considering this route should weigh the potential benefits against the ethical and health concerns, ensuring they prioritize the safety of infants above all else.

What is the 120 pumping rule?

The first 12 weeks of your breastfeeding journey requires frequent breastmilk removal, stimulating healthy milk production. Studies show moms who exclusively pump for a minimum of 120 minutes per day can make enough to feed their babies primarily breastmilk.

How much money can you get from breast milk?

Komen® $1 for every ounce of qualified milk collected. Tiny Treasures Milk Bank – You’ll be compensated $1.20 for every qualified ounce of milk you donate.

Where can I sell breast milk?

Udderly breast milk marketplace
Your favorite buy, donate or sell breastmilk app. Udderly is a platform that connects moms who are looking to donate or sell breastmilk with those who are seeking to receive breastmilk.

Can you sell breastmilk on Facebook?

However, there are concerns with the practice. It is not illegal to sell breast milk online. But, it is unregulated, so it’s “buyer beware.” The FDA warns feeding infants breast milk from online marketplaces can transmit diseases or expose them to prescription or illegal drugs, making it a public health issue.

Why are breast pumps not allowed on Facebook marketplace?

You can get around it and breast pumps have plenty of resale value. Facebook decided that pumps are considered a medical device and you’re not allowed to sell it.

Is it legal to sell breast milk online?

Although states such as California, New York, and Texas have laws pertaining to the procurement and distribution of human milk, these laws pertain to milk donated through a licensed milk bank, and not to individual sellers in the informal “gray” market.

What is the 5 5 5 rule for breast milk?

Something I recommend to moms is the 5-5-5 rule. Try and use milk within five hours at room temperature, five days in the fridge, and by five months in the freezer.

What to do with breast milk baby didn’t finish?

How do I store and serve leftover breast milk? Leftover breast milk can still be used within 2 hours after the baby is finished feeding. After 2 hours, leftover breast milk should be thrown away. To avoid wasting unfed milk, consider storing, thawing, and warming it in smaller amounts.

How do I get rid of unwanted breast milk?

Several factors will affect how long it takes for your milk to dry up, including your baby’s age and how much milk your body is making.

1. 7 ways to dry your breast milk supply quickly.
2. Cold turkey.
3. Herbs.
4. Cabbage.
5. Birth control.
6. Sudafed.
7. Vitamin B.
8. Other drugs.

What can I do with unwanted breast milk?

Note: If your stash isn’t expired like mine, please consider donating any and all leftover milk to the HMBANA, which is a network of non-profit milk banks that focus on serving “vulnerable preterm and otherwise fragile infants who need human milk as medicine.”