The nationwide shortage of baby formula is leading some parents to try to buy breast milk from neighbors or strangers on Facebook. That’s not safe, according to a UC San Diego breast milk expert.
These preterm babies shouldn’t get formula because they need human breast milk to avoid potential bowel complications, Stellwagen said. But many hospitals still give premature babies formula if they don’t have donor milk.
“The main concern right now is children at home who have a need for specialized medical formula that they may not be able to get because it was part of the recall,” she said."The donor milk banks are happy to step up and provide milk if they have the capabilities to do so.”However, while UC Health’s milk bank does provide milk to some babies at home, the cost is prohibitive — as much as $4 to $5 an ounce. This adds up to about $6,000 a month.
“The safety comparison is like blood donation, there are risks in using raw milk from somebody that you don't know that hasn't been vetted,” she said. “The milk donor hasn't been tested, the milk hasn't been checked for bacteria, and milk obtained on the Internet might be shipped or handled improperly and could put a baby's health at risk.”
“Switching to other brands of similar formula is fine for a healthy baby with no dietary restrictions,” she said. “Older babies over 6 months can be given toddler formula or whole cow's milk for a short period of time.”
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