What is a fair price for breast milk?

Understanding the Value of Breast Milk
In recent years, the conversation around breast milk has evolved significantly, especially in light of challenges such as formula shortages. While many people perceive breastfeeding as a cost-free option, the reality is far more complex. The value of breast milk extends beyond mere nutrition; it encompasses emotional, physical, and economic dimensions that are often overlooked.
The Economic Perspective
Breast milk is not just a natural resource; it has a tangible economic value. According to recent analyses, the costs associated with breastfeeding can reach up to $11,000 per year when considering both direct and indirect expenses, such as lactation consultations, breast pumps, and the time invested in breastfeeding. This figure highlights that while breastfeeding may seem free, it often comes with significant financial implications for mothers.
When it comes to purchasing breast milk, prices can vary widely. Milk banks typically charge around $20 per bottle, reflecting the costs of screening, processing, and storing the milk to ensure safety and quality. This price point is indicative of the rigorous standards that milk banks adhere to, which is crucial for the health of infants receiving donor milk.
The Market for Breast Milk
The rise of online marketplaces has created a new dynamic in the breast milk economy. Some mothers, particularly those unable to produce enough milk, are turning to online classifieds to find milk donors. In these informal settings, prices can fluctuate significantly, with some sellers reportedly earning between $1,400 to $2,100 a month by selling their excess milk. However, this unregulated market raises concerns about safety and quality, as not all sellers adhere to health guidelines.
Safety Concerns
The safety of breast milk purchased outside of regulated milk banks is a critical issue. Studies have shown that some online samples can contain dangerously high levels of bacteria, posing serious health risks to infants. This underscores the importance of sourcing breast milk from reputable providers, whether through established milk banks or trusted networks.
Conclusion
Determining a fair price for breast milk involves considering various factors, including the source, safety, and the economic realities faced by breastfeeding mothers. While regulated milk banks provide a safer option at a consistent price, the informal market offers flexibility but comes with risks. Ultimately, the value of breast milk is not just monetary; it reflects the dedication and effort of mothers who navigate the complexities of breastfeeding in today’s world.

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 should I sell breastmilk for?

While the market price of breast milk is variable, the average price stays around $4-$5 per ounce, including milk bank processing fees.

What is the value of breast milk?

Breastmilk has the nutrients that are best for your baby’s brain growth and nervous system development. Studies of breastfed babies have found that they do better on intelligence tests when they grow older. A breastfed baby’s eyes also work better. This is mostly because of certain types of fat in breastmilk.

What is a reasonable price 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.

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.

How much is 1 oz of breast milk?

How much milk a baby needs each day, and thus how much a mom ideally produces.

Day of Life	Milk volume 30mL = 30cc = 1oz
Through 6 months	~24 – 32oz per day
After 6 months	~20 – 24oz per day plus foods high in iron, calcium and protein.
	24oz per day = 1oz per hour. If baby ate 3 hrs ago, he’ll need ~3oz now.

Will 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.

How much should breastmilk be sold for?

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.

How much is a normal supply of breast milk?

For infants between 1-6 months old, the average is around 750 mL/25.36 oz a day. A single breastfeeding session might produce between 54-234 mL/1.82-7.91 oz of milk. A mom might nurse between 4-13 times every day depending on the baby’s appetite, how much milk is removed each session, and other external factors.