Are Raw Milk and Breast Milk the Same?

Raw milk has gained traction on social media, despite major medical organizations warning against unpasteurized milk. Some influencers are now comparing raw milk to breast milk, prompting the American Academy of Pediatrics to caution families about the risks of drinking raw milk. Probably the biggest difference between breast milk and raw milk is immunologic and bioactive properties, said Jenelle Ferry, M.D., a board-certified neonatologist and director of feeding, nutrition and infant development at Pediatrix® Neonatology of Florida. “Growth factors, immune factors, hormones, digestive enzymes and immunoglobulins are all present in human milk and necessary for how humans develop and adapt,” said Dr. Ferry. All children are vulnerable here, she pointed out. “When looking at reported raw milk outbreaks, you will find that children are disproportionately represented – this means they are way more likely to get sick,” said Dr. Ferry. “They are also at much higher risk of getting invasive diseases and developing severe complications.”

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