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How much can you get paid for breast milk?

The Market for Breast Milk: Earnings and Opportunities
In recent years, the practice of selling breast milk has gained traction, driven by both the demand for this nutritious resource and the financial incentives for mothers who produce excess milk. While it may seem unconventional, many women are finding ways to monetize their surplus breast milk, with earnings that can vary significantly based on several factors.
How Much Can You Earn?
The potential earnings from selling breast milk can range widely. On average, women can expect to earn about $2 per ounce of breast milk. Given that a lactating woman can produce approximately 30 ounces per day, this translates to a potential income of around $60 daily. Over a month, this could amount to $1,800, assuming consistent production and sales.
However, some sources suggest that earnings can be even higher. For instance, certain online platforms and milk banks report that women can earn between $1,400 to $2,100 monthly by selling their milk. In some cases, particularly when selling directly to individuals or through specialized online marketplaces, mothers have reported earnings of up to $2,250 per month.
Where to Sell Breast Milk
There are various avenues for selling breast milk. Some women choose to donate their milk to milk banks, which may offer compensation. The Mothers Milk Cooperative is noted as one of the few milk banks that pays women for their donations. Additionally, online platforms and classified ads have become popular for connecting sellers with buyers, particularly among those who may need breast milk for infants or have specific dietary needs.
The Demand for Breast Milk
The demand for breast milk is driven by several factors, including the needs of mothers who cannot produce enough milk for their babies, as well as the growing interest in breast milk among adults, including those with specific health or dietary goals. This has created a unique market where both mothers and buyers can benefit from the exchange.
Conclusion
Selling breast milk can be a lucrative opportunity for mothers with excess supply. With earnings that can reach up to $60 a day or more, this practice not only provides financial relief but also supports other mothers and infants in need. As the market continues to evolve, it presents a fascinating intersection of health, community, and commerce.

How much can you get paid for donating breast milk?

Commercial milk banks cover testing and shipping costs too, and some pay or donate money on your behalf. For example, Tiny Treasures Milk Bank compensates milk donors with $1 per ounce of breastmilk and Helping Hands Milk Bank contributes $1 per ounce of donated milk to the Susan G. Komen foundation.

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.

How can I get paid for my breast milk?

There’s two main US national milk banks, Tiny Treasures and Ni-Q. TT pays $1.20/oz and Ni-Q pays $1/oz. Both are good companies and use that milk to make milk products that are used in hospital NICUs.

What are the side effects of donating breast milk?

Risks for the baby include exposure to infectious diseases, including HIV, to chemical contaminants, such as some illegal drugs, and to a limited number of prescription drugs that might be in the human milk, if the donor has not been adequately screened.

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.

What are the cons of donor milk?

Risks for the baby include exposure to infectious diseases, including HIV, to chemical contaminants, such as some illegal drugs, and to a limited number of prescription drugs that might be in the human milk, if the donor has not been adequately screened.

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 breast milk worth the money?

Breastfeeding has health benefits for both babies and mothers. Breast milk provides a baby with ideal nutrition and supports growth and development. Breastfeeding can also help protect baby and mom against certain illnesses and diseases.

How much can I get for breast milk?

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.

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.

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