A groundbreaking discovery by researchers at the University Center of Exact Sciences and Engineering (Cucei) in Guadalajara, Jalisco, has revolutionized the way human milk is preserved for use in infant nutrition. Scientists at this campus of the University of Guadalajara have successfully developed a unique process of turning human milk into milk powder while retaining all its beneficial properties for up to two years.
Blanca Rosa Aguilar Uscanga, head of the Cucei Human Milk Research Laboratory, shared that their spraying method can turn one liter of human milk into 80 grams of powder while preserving over 80 percent of the nutrients. The goal was to find a conservation method that retained the nutritional, biological and sanitary qualities required for infant nutrition.
Human milk contains proteins, carbohydrates, enzymes, living cells and other components that are retained in powder form. Unlike other methods such as freeze-drying or pasteurization that can compromise the quality of nutrients, Cucei’s spray-drying process does not introduce any preservatives or additives into the milk.
Human milk powder is stored in airtight containers or jars and can be stored at room temperature for up to two years without loss of nutrients. A special device is used to turn liquid milk into powder through a process that involves aerosolization.
Tsucei provides a lactation room on campus where up to three mothers can express milk in a hygienic and comfortable environment. This service is open to all breast-feeding individuals, not just those in the university community, who can request a removal and drying service for a fee.
Overall, this revolutionary method developed by Cucei offers an effective solution for preserving human milk while maintaining its nutritional value and benefits for infants.