A growing trend for black market breast milk may be putting babies at risk, prompting Australian researchers to call for the establishment of regulated “milk banks.”
The benefits of breast milk have been expounded for years, with a limited number of milk banks operating across Australia for premature or sick babies.
But not all milk is safe and a growing trend for black market buying and sharing over the internet and social media is putting infants at risk.
If the milk is not stored correctly, there is a risk of bacterial contamination and infectious diseases. Medications or illegal drugs can also be transmitted through the milk if not properly screened, the Monash University researchers warn….