New Delhi: Human milk or breast milk is known for its nutritional value for newborn babies. As per some studies, breast milk also plays a vital role in fighting chronic diseases like cancer, digestive issues and immune disorders. After days the Food Safety and Standards Authorities India (FSSAI) issued a warning against the commercial sale of human milk in India, the FSSAI officials in Chennai cracked down on an outlet suspected of selling human breast milk. As per reports, several bottles of ‘pasteurized’ breast milk and packets of breast milk powder have been seized.
According to reports, the outlet was under observation for 10 days after receiving a complaint. The hidden stock of breast milk has been confiscated currently. Samples of the seized bottles priced at ₹500 for 50ml, have been sent for testing for further investigation.
Human milk for adults
Dr Manjusha Agarwal, senior Consultant- Internal Medicine, Gleneagles Hospital, Parel Mumbai News9, said that human milk is only for babies and adults do not need to drink human milk as they don’t get any extra benefit from human milk.
The commercialisation of human milk can lead to serious ethical concerns which include the exploitation of vulnerable women population who might sell their milk for financial reasons. While selling breast milk may deprive the infants who are the main beneficiaries of the nutritional source. An advisory issued by the FSSAI last week clarified that processing and selling breast milk violates the FSS Act, 2006.
Explaining the ill effects of the human milk on adults, Dr Agarwal said, contaminated breast milk can transfer infections and viruses such as hepatitis B, syphilis, and cytomegalovirus. Here are some reasons why the food safety body advises not to consume it.
Side-effects of human milk for adults
According to a study conducted on some samples of breast milk sold online showed that around 93 per cent of samples contained bacteria out of which 74 per cent contained gram-negative bacteria. The gram-bacteria can cause respiratory issues like indigestion or diarrhoea.
However, the bacteria contamination is most likely to happen due to inadequate sanitisation procedures while cleaning, storing milk or even during the transportation of milk.
Why the food safety body advises against consuming it?
Contamination and adulteration: Breast milk can be a vector for spreading infectious diseases like HIV, hepatitis and bacterial viruses. If the milk is not checked properly and pasteurised, it can carry harmful pathogens in them.
Risk of infection spread: The breast milk that is sold online may not maintain the hygiene and safety standards that are required. There is a higher risk of contamination with harmful viruses and substances.
Digestive issues or diarrhoea: A study has revealed that human milk sold online contained around 74 per cent of gram-negative bacteria that can lead to indigestion and diarrhoea.
Pneumonia: The gram-negative bacteria can also lead to respiratory problems like pneumonia and digestive issues, as per a study.
After days the Food Safety and Standards Authorities India issued a warning against the commercial sale of human milk in India, the FSSAI officials in Chennai cracked down on an outlet suspected of selling human breast milk. As per reports, several bottles of ‘pasteurized’ breast milk and packets of breast milk powder have been seized. Check reasons why the food safety body advises against consuming it? Health Conditions Health News: Latest News from Health Care, Mental Health, Weight Loss, Disease, Nutrition, Healthcare
