Is it legal to sell breast milk USA?

The Legality of Selling Breast Milk in the USA
In the United States, selling breast milk is legal, and it has become a notable market, particularly online. Many lactating individuals are turning to platforms like Facebook Marketplace and specialized websites to sell their excess milk, often to parents seeking alternatives for their infants. This practice is not only legal but also reflects a growing trend where individuals can monetize their surplus milk while providing a valuable resource to others in need.
Market Dynamics and Safety Concerns
While the sale of breast milk is permissible, it is important to note that the market is largely unregulated. This lack of oversight raises significant safety concerns. Sellers may face legal liabilities under state tort laws if they sell contaminated milk or misrepresent the quality of their product. For instance, if a seller dilutes their milk with water or cow’s milk to increase volume, they could be held liable for fraudulent misrepresentation.
Moreover, the absence of stringent regulations means that buyers must exercise caution. The risk of transmitting infections or diseases through improperly handled milk is a serious concern. Health experts often recommend that parents obtain milk from certified milk banks, which screen donors and pasteurize the milk to ensure safety.
The Role of Milk Banks
Milk banks play a crucial role in the ecosystem of breast milk distribution. They typically operate under strict health guidelines and provide a safe alternative for parents who wish to use donor milk. While some milk banks sell milk, others may offer it for donation, particularly to families in need. This structured approach contrasts sharply with the informal sales occurring in online marketplaces, where the quality and safety of the milk can vary widely.
Conclusion
In summary, while it is legal to sell breast milk in the USA, potential sellers and buyers should be aware of the associated risks and legal implications. The market exists within a gray area of regulation, making it essential for participants to prioritize safety and transparency. As this unique market continues to evolve, ongoing discussions about regulation and safety standards will likely shape its future.

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 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 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.

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.

Why did the US ban raw milk?

coli, Salmonella, and Campylobacter infections di- rectly linked to the consumption of unpasteur- ized milk in the past 20 years. CDC reports that from 1998 to 2005 there were 39 outbreaks in which unpasteurized milk, or cheese made from unpasteurized milk, was implicated as the cause.

Why do bodybuilders drink breast milk?

“I think the idea behind drinking breast milk for muscle growth is that it’s incredibly calorie and nutrient dense, and it has some additional healthy substances,” says Brian St. Pierre, a sports dietitian with Precision Nutrition.

Is raw milk USDA approved?

Mar 18, 2024. Knowledge
Raw milk from a cow must be pasteurized to be safe. Pasteurization destroys all disease-producing organisms that may be present, making milk safe to drink. For more information contact the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) at 888-723-3366 or visit the FDA website.

How much does breast milk sell for in USA?

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.

Is it legal to sell raw milk in the US?

Federal law prohibits the sale of unpasteurized milk across state lines, but individual state laws govern the sale of unpasteurized milk within the state. These state laws vary widely.

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.”