In the last few years there have been posts on the internet regarding the making of soap with Breast Milk. The phenomenon began in China and was highly touted as a way to obtain whiter, clearer, softer skin. However, in the United States a more conservative view was taken with doctors pointing out that human breast milk is a “bodily fluid” and needs to be respected as such. The position of the medical community is that the potential for transmission of undesirable bacteria could exist if milk was used from a person in poor health. So keeping breast milk “all in the family” is highly recommended.
Given statements from doctors and the AMA, finding breast milk soap in a store or even on the internet is not common, and in our opinion, should remain that way. The production of breast milk soap is best left to experienced makers serving the needs of private families who can provide their own supply of milk, if they do indeed believe it is better for their family.
Milk is a perishable product, plus the vitamin, mineral and fat content varies greatly between people. Temperatures in hot-process soap-making would destroy the nutrient benefit of the soap once cooked. However, cold-process soap-making; where no heat is applied, does offer a higher level of retained nutrients. If the soap is made through an artisanal process with attention paid to milk storage temperatures, proper handling, safety and prompt usage, a lovely product can result.
We were approached by the Sastry Ban Family, a local Cincinnati family wanting to use only premium soap made from their own family’s breast milk. They asked us to take on the project. After doing some research into bio-hazard protocols and following recommended sanitation requirements, we agreed to do a few custom batches in Unscented and Honey Oatmeal using their “personal supply” of breast milk. This was a private contract. So you will NOT be seeing Honey Sweetie Breast Milk Soap in stores, on the internet or at shows.
Researching the breast milk and working with the batches was an interesting experience. The soap turned out very well and it was visually impossible to tell that the soap was made with breast milk instead of goat milk. The weight, hardness and pH were all within normal parameters. The lather and feel were very nice and met expectations.
Soap made with breast milk is certainly thinking outside the box, but it is a very PERSONAL decision to use such a soap for your family. We are grateful to the Ban Family for allowing us the opportunity to create their “special” soap.
