What is a mothers’ milk bank?
A. A mothers’ milk bank collects, processes, tests and distributes donated human milk. Some milk banks are hospital affiliated, others are independent entities that serve the whole community. MMBNE is a non-profit independent milk bank operating under the guidelines of the Human Milk Bank Association of North America (HMBANA). Q. Why is banked milk better than specialized formulas? A. Human milk is designed for human babies. Specialized formulas for premature babies are modified from cows’ milk and they are very harsh on the delicate digestive systems of premature newborns. For example, necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is 10 -17% more likely if a preemie receives formula. NEC can lead to lifelong gastrointestinal problems, and is largely preventable by feeding babies human milk. Q. Is milk banking safe? A. Multiple steps are taken to make sure that banked milk is safe for the vulnerable babies it will feed. Screening of milk donors includes an interview regarding health behaviors, lette
