Bacteria In Breast Milk

Mother's milk, which consists of a complex and continually changing blend of proteins, fats and sugars, helps protect babies against bacterial infections. In the past, scientists have concentrated their search for the source of its antibacterial properties on the proteins it contains.

According to a team of chemists from the Vanderbilt University in the United States, some of the carbohydrates that are found in human milk not only have antibacterial properties but they also enhance the effectiveness of the antibacterial proteins present in milk.

Human breast milk is sold for babies on several online sites for a few dollars an ounce, but a new study says buyer beware: Testing showed it can contain potentially dangerous bacteria including salmonella.

Mother's milk, which consists of a complex and continually changing blend of proteins, fats and sugars, helps protect babies against bacterial infections. In the past, scientists have concentrated their search for the source of its antibacterial properties on the proteins it contains.

According to a team of chemists from the Vanderbilt University in the United States, some of the carbohydrates that are found in human milk not only have antibacterial properties but they also enhance the effectiveness of the antibacterial proteins present in milk.

Human breast milk is sold for babies on several online sites for a few dollars an ounce, but a new study says buyer beware: Testing showed it can contain potentially dangerous bacteria including salmonella.