Episode Title: Conceptualizing the Commercialization of Human Milk: A Concept Analysis: A panel discussion with authors.

Panel Members:

Heather Christine Rusi, MHDFS, MIHMEP, BN, BComm, RN

Laurence M. Grummer-Strawn, MPA, MA, PhD

Maryanne Tigchelaar Perrin, PhD, MBA, BS, RDN 

Meredith Lee Brockway, PhD, BN, BS, RN, IBCLC

Full bios for all authors of the study available at JHL’s podcast page

https://journals.sagepub.com/jhl/podcasts

Full Citation:

Rusi, H. C., Grummer-Strawn, L., Perrin, M. T., Risling, T., & Brockway, M. L. (2024). Conceptualizing the Commercialization of Human Milk: A Concept Analysis. Journal of human lactation : official journal of International Lactation Consultant Association, 8903344241254345. Open Access Advance online publication. https://doi.org/10.1177/08903344241254345

Podcast Summary:

Welcome to this episode of "The Journal of Human Lactation Podcast," where we delve into the groundbreaking world of lactation science. Join us as we explore the latest research articles, uncover innovative practices, and discuss the future of breastfeeding and human milk studies.

We are launching this podcast with a very special episode in celebration of World Breastfeeding Week!

In today’s episode we dive into the complex and controversial topic of human milk commercialization. We will cover the key findings and implications of "Conceptualizing the Commercialization of Human Milk: A Concept Analysis." Join us as we chat with the authors who will unpack the ethical, social, and scientific dimensions of this critical issue and leave us with a structural definition of the topic area and next steps being considered at the World Health Assembly.

State of Science and Technology: Understand the current landscape of science and technology in human milk commercialization and the for-profit marketing of human milk products.

Importance of Policy Guidelines: Learn why it's crucial to conceptualize and define the commercialization of human milk and the need for policy guidelines and regulations.

Demand and Ethical Considerations: Explore the increasing demand for human milk products, their benefits, and the ethical issues surrounding their commercialization.

Lessons from the International Code: Discover lessons from the International Code of Marketing of Breast-Milk Substitutes and how they are being considered by the World Health Assembly to current marketing tactics for human milk products.

Equity and Access: Discuss the relevance of this year's World Breastfeeding Week theme on equity and how commercial human milk can disrupt access and support for breastfeeding.

Global Policy Recommendations: Learn about the infrastructures needed at a global policy level to protect lactating individuals while supporting infants in need.

Guidelines and Regulations: Understand the elements that should be included in guidelines and regulations, including the potential role of payment for milk produced.

Clinical Implications: Hear what breastfeeding support providers need to know while providing clinical care to their patients in the context of human milk commercialization.

Link to the Article: Access the full text of "Conceptualizing the Commercialization of Human Milk: A Concept Analysis."

Further Reading: If you are interested in the Brazilian Milk Banking system, mentioned by Dr. Perrin, keep your eye on the JHL homepage where we will shortly publish a fascinating  interview with Professor Joao Aprigio Guerra de Almeida on the evolution of the Brazilian human milk banking system.

Join the Conversation: Engage with us on social media at Facebook @JournalofHumanLactation; Instagram @journalofhumanlactation and X @JHL_Lactation 

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