RESEARCH & RESOURCES
Research and Resources
Good research is the best way to inform how Milk Banks operate in the screening of donors and handling of milk, as well as for doctors and hospitals in the use of pasteurized donor human milk for babies. Below are some articles of interest relating to breastfeeding, milk banking, and the recipients of pasteurized donor human milk.
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Educational Websites
Human Milk Banking Association of North America (HMBANA)
World Health Organization (WHO)
Canadian Paediatric Society (CPS)
Breastfeeding Committee for Canada
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Statements on Breastfeeding and Donor Human Milk
Canadian Paediatric Society - Position Statement on Human Milk Banking
Canadian Paediatric Society - Baby Friendly Initiative
American Academy of Pediatrics - Breastfeeding and the Use of Human Milk
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HMBANA Statement on Donor Remuneration
In 2023, HMBANA member milk banks distributed nearly 10 million ounces of donor human milk, highlighting the unwavering commitment of our network to meet the increasing demand for safe donor milk. Since 1985, HMBANA has led the industry in quality and safety for milk bank screening, processing, and testing both nationally and internationally. Safety starts with comprehensively screening the 100% voluntary, non-remunerated milk donor. Voluntary milk donation is the pillar and foundation of a safe and sufficient milk supply for vulnerable infants.
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HMBANA member milk banks follow standards created by healthcare and regulatory experts, ensuring that all milk is donated freely and without financial compensation. This approach is backed by several organizations, including the World Health Organization, FDA, and CDC, who agree that voluntary donation is the safest and most ethical method.
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We are aware that some third-party companies offer financial incentives to milk donors, which place undue burden on milk bank donor screeners and milk processors. HMBANA member milk banks do not endorse or participate in these activities. We are grateful to our donors who choose to give their milk altruistically so that medically fragile babies have a fighting chance to grow and thrive! Milk donors are the superheroes who make nonprofit milk banking possible.