How much money do you get for breast milk?

The Economics of Selling Breast Milk
In recent years, the practice of selling breast milk has gained traction among mothers looking to make some extra income. While it may seem unconventional, many women find themselves with an oversupply of milk and choose to sell it to help other mothers who are unable to breastfeed. This burgeoning market raises the question: how much money can one actually make from selling breast milk?
Pricing and Potential Earnings
The price for breast milk can vary significantly based on several factors, including the seller’s location, the demand for milk, and the intended use of the milk. On average, breast milk is sold for about $2 per ounce. Given that a lactating woman can produce approximately 30 ounces per day, this translates to a potential income of around $60 daily if all the milk is sold.
For those looking to sell their milk consistently, the earnings can add up. Reports suggest that women can earn between $1,400 to $2,100 a month by selling their excess milk, depending on their production levels and the market demand. This income can be particularly appealing for mothers who are already pumping milk for their babies and have a surplus.
The Market for Breast Milk
The market for breast milk is diverse. Some women sell their milk to milk banks, which often pay for high-quality, screened milk intended for premature or ill infants. Others may sell directly to consumers, including mothers who are unable to produce enough milk for their babies or even individuals with specific fetishes.
Online platforms have emerged as popular venues for selling breast milk, allowing sellers to connect with buyers easily. This has created a unique marketplace where mothers can not only help others but also earn a significant amount of money in the process.
Considerations and Challenges
While selling breast milk can be lucrative, it is not without its challenges. The process requires careful consideration of health and safety standards, as milk sold for consumption must be free from contaminants. Additionally, the emotional and ethical implications of selling breast milk can weigh heavily on some mothers.
Moreover, the costs associated with breastfeeding—such as pumping equipment, storage bags, and time spent pumping—can offset some of the financial benefits. A study highlighted that the direct and indirect costs of breastfeeding can reach up to $11,000 annually, making the decision to breastfeed more complex than it appears.
Conclusion
In summary, selling breast milk can be a viable source of income for mothers with an oversupply. With potential earnings of $1,400 to $2,100 a month, it offers a unique opportunity to support other families while also benefiting financially. However, it is essential for sellers to navigate the ethical, health, and logistical aspects of this practice carefully. As the market continues to grow, it reflects broader societal trends regarding breastfeeding, maternal health, and the commodification of natural resources.

What disqualifies you from donating breastmilk?

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 breastmilk should I be making at 5 weeks?

During the first week, most full-term babies take no more than 1 to 2 ounces (30 to 60ml) at feedings. This is because newborns’ stomachs are so small. After 4 to 5 weeks, babies reach their peak feeding volume of about 3 to 4 ounces (90 to 120ml) and peak daily milk intake of about 30 ounces per day (900ml).

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 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 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.

Do milk donors get paid?

Do you get paid to donate breastmilk? Nonprofit HMBANA milk banks do not pay their donors. They do, however, cover breastmilk testing and shipping costs. Commercial milk banks cover testing and shipping costs too, and some pay or donate money on your behalf.

Does pumping every 2 hours increase milk supply?

Pump more often, from both breasts
Many women wonder how often they should pump. A general guideline is to pump every three hours. But if you’re trying to produce more breast milk, you can: Try pumping both breasts for 15 minutes every two hours for 48-72 hours.

Do you get paid to donate breastmilk?

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.

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.