Home » Blog » Breastfeeding » How much can I get for breast milk?

How much can I get for breast milk?

The Market for Breast Milk: How Much Can You Earn?
In recent years, the demand for breast milk has surged, particularly due to formula shortages and an increasing awareness of the nutritional benefits of breastfeeding. This has led many mothers to consider selling their excess breast milk, raising the question: how much can you actually get for it?
Potential Earnings
Mothers looking to sell their breast milk can expect to earn between $1,400 to $2,100 per month. This figure can vary based on several factors, including the quantity of milk produced, the method of sale, and the specific market conditions at the time.
Factors Influencing Price
1. Quantity of Milk: The more milk you can produce, the higher your potential earnings. Mothers who pump regularly and have a surplus can command better prices.

2. Quality and Testing: Milk that has been screened and tested for safety can fetch a higher price. Buyers are often willing to pay more for milk that comes from healthy donors who can provide proof of their health status.
3. Market Demand: The demand for breast milk can fluctuate based on various factors, including local availability and the presence of milk banks. In areas where there is a high demand for donor milk, prices may be higher.
4. Selling Platforms: The method of selling can also impact earnings. Online platforms and local classifieds can provide different pricing structures, with some mothers opting to sell directly to consumers, while others may choose to work with milk banks or donation services.
Ethical Considerations
While selling breast milk can be lucrative, it is essential to consider the ethical implications. Many mothers choose to donate their milk to milk banks, which provide it to infants in need, particularly those who are premature or have health issues. Selling milk can sometimes raise concerns about commodifying a natural process, and potential buyers should be aware of the risks involved in purchasing milk from unregulated sources.
Conclusion
Selling breast milk can be a viable option for mothers with a surplus, offering a significant financial incentive. However, it is crucial to navigate this market thoughtfully, considering both the ethical implications and the health standards involved. As the demand for breast milk continues to grow, so too does the opportunity for mothers to contribute to the health of infants while earning extra income.

What is the value of human breast milk?

Human breast milk (HBM) is essential for the infant’s growth and development right after birth and is an irreplaceable source of nutrition for early human survival. Various infant formulas have many similarities to HBM in many components, but there is no perfect substitute for HBM.

How much is breast milk per ounce?

$3-$5 per ounce
The average cost is $3-$5 per ounce, and babies can consume between 32 and 48 ounces of milk per day. In states where neither Medicaid nor commercial insurance covers donor milk, families sometimes buy unregulated breast milk online or receive donated milk from friends or family because it can be less expensive.

What disqualifies you from donating breast milk?

You may be disqualified from donating breast milk if you: Have or are being treated for HIV, HTLV (human T-cell leukemia virus), hepatitis B or C, or syphilis. Have a sexual partner who is at risk for HIV, HTLV, hepatitis B or C, or syphilis. Have used recreational drugs within the last year.

How much can you get paid for 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.

Can you write off breast milk donation?

Is my donation tax-deductible? The IRS does not allow a deduction for any kind of human tissue. You can deduct the cost of your breast pump and bags if you purchased them yourself.

How much do body builders pay for breast milk?

I’ve been seeing that bodybuilders are buying breastmilk for up to $5 an ounce.

Do hospitals pay for breast milk?

This fee is paid for by the hospital, not the family, and covers the cost of screening, processing, bottling, testing, labeling, tracking, and overnight shipment of the frozen pasteurized milk. The milk itself is not sold.

Is it legal to sell breast milk in the US?

Can I Sell My Breast Milk? Although the practice is not regulated, the American Academy of Pediatrics and the Food and Drug Administration recommend donating your breast milk to a HMBANA milk bank.

Do hospitals pay for donor milk?

This fee is paid for by the hospital, not the family, and covers the cost of screening, processing, bottling, testing, labeling, tracking, and overnight shipment of the frozen pasteurized milk. The milk itself is not sold.

How do I legally sell my breast milk?

Steps

  1. Find a milk bank you would like to join. Some milk banks only accept donations, but there are a lot of them out there that will pay $1 or more per ounce of breast milk.
  2. Apply for a milk bank membership.
  3. Undergo a screening process and blood test.
  4. Follow guidelines to correctly store and transport breast milk.
Natasha Lunn

Tash is an IBCLC and Business Coach helping fellow IBCLCs create fun, profitable businesses that are more than just an expensive hobby. Before becoming an IBCLC and starting her private practice - The Boobala, Tash graduated as an Osteopath in 2008 and has been in Private Practice in South West Sydney. She was also a volunteer Breastfeeding Counsellor and Community Educator with the Australian Breastfeeding Association for 6 years. Through her business, Your Lactation Biz, Tash coaches and creates products to help new and seasoned IBCLCs build businesses that suit their personality and lifestyle.

Leave a Comment