Why is freeze-dried breast milk expensive?

How much does breast milk freeze-drying cost?

The price depends on the amount of milk and the packaging format. Below are the current price ranges for both products.

• Small pouches€50,00 – €999,99Price range: €50,00 through €999,99
• Large pouches€50,00 – €829,99Price range: €50,00 through €829,99

These price ranges exclude any optional extras and logistics costs. Select your quantity and options on the product page and check the total before ordering.

We regularly see people (on social media) who argue that freeze-drying breast milk is unnecessarily expensive. They wonder why it is more expensive than other methods of storing breast milk. At Milksy Babyfood we understand these concerns. We would like to explain why our product is a valuable investment and how this price is determined.

Freeze-drying breast milk requires careful processing and suitable materials. Nutrients and various properties can be largely preserved, with results varying by component and conditions. Below, we explain the steps that contribute to the cost of our service.

The investment in equipment and materials

The process begins with a significant investment in specialized equipment and materials. A freeze dryer and the associated materials are expensive and it often takes some time before this investment is recouped. Unlike large-scale production of artificial food, where everything is done mechanically and on an assembly line, almost every step is carried out manually.

1. Manual handling and control

When the breast milk comes to us, our labor-intensive process begins. The bags are counted, temperature checked, photographed and then labeled and placed in a freezer until processing takes place. This process can involve up to 150 bags of 100 ml each, which can easily take half an hour to an hour.

2. Preparation of breast milk for freeze-drying

Before we freeze-dry the breast milk, we manually cut open all the bags and weigh them again without the breast milk storage bag. We then mix the milk mechanically into a slush puppy-like substance and distribute it over the trays in the freeze dryer. We also use personal protective equipment such as lab coats, hair nets, face masks and gloves for this entire process. This process takes at least 45 minutes to an hour and a half.

3. The freeze-drying process

The trays of breast milk are then placed in the freeze dryer, where they remain for between 48 and 72 hours, depending on the quantity. The freeze-drying process itself is energy intensive and requires a significant amount of electricity. During this process we thoroughly clean the work surfaces, wash the spent steel containers and destroy the bags, which takes another 20 minutes.

4. Checking and packaging

After the freeze-drying process, we check and weigh the breast milk for moisture content. We then mix the powdered milk mechanically and pass it manually through a sieve to obtain superfine powder. This process again requires the use of personal protective equipment. The milk is then manually packed into bags. For 12 liters of breast milk, which amounts to approximately 1440 grams of powder, no fewer than 96 bags of 15 grams are needed. This packaging takes about an hour, because each bag must be weighed individually.

5. Finishing and shipping

After we fill the bags, we seal them one by one. We then calculate the ratio and print and stick a label for each bag, which takes at least 30 minutes. Finally, we write a personalized card and include instructions before packing the box and sending it back to the customer. This packaging also entails costs.

6. Cleaning and preparation for the next order

After completing an order, we completely clean the workplace. We manually disassemble the freeze dryer and clean it thoroughly, which requires time and various cleaning agents. After going through our hygiene protocols, we reassemble the freeze dryer and prepare for the next order.

A lot of working hours

It takes two people between 3 and 5 hours to complete each order. These hours are separate from the time we spend on customer service, administration, social media and marketing. So that you may understand the above how we arrive at the price for freeze-drying your breast milk.

Cost savings and safety: The benefits of freeze-dried breast milk

In addition to understanding the labor intensity and materials involved in freeze-drying breast milk, it is also important to understand the cost savings and safety considerations this method offers. Although the initial costs may seem higher, the long-term benefits can be significant.

Longer shelf life and less waste

Freeze-dried breast milk is a practical option for parents who want to keep their supply for longer. Quality depends on factors including the original milk, processing, packaging and storage. Milksy applies a four-year shelf life to unopened, undamaged packages, provided the prescribed storage conditions are followed. Keep the package cool, dry and away from light, and follow the date and instructions on the label.

Convenience and flexibility for busy parents

For busy parents, freeze-dried breast milk offers unprecedented convenience and flexibility. It is easy to store, lightweight and easy to carry, whether you are traveling or have a busy schedule. Instead of managing large quantities of frozen milk, you use exactly the amount of powder you need. This is especially useful for mothers returning to work and needing a reliable milk supply.

Health Benefits of Breast Milk

Milksy makes it possible to preserve your own breast milk in powder form. Freeze-drying largely preserves nutrients and relevant properties. The exact degree of preservation varies by component and conditions. This is not a guarantee of medical efficacy or suitability.

Freeze-drying breast milk is safe

Research results depend on the conditions and processes studied. They do not provide general clinical approval of the Milksy product. Milksy follows HACCP procedures; freeze-drying is not a sterilisation method. Want to read more about the research? Visit our research page of lees this blog.

Freeze-drying your breast milk is a luxury service

We understand that our product is not affordable for everyone and we sincerely regret that. Offering larger pockets instead of several smaller bags is an example of how we try to save costs. Like you might imagine by now, this costs us less money and is less labor intensive. Nevertheless, we must accept that freeze-drying breast milk is a luxury service that appeals to a specific target group that is willing to invest in the health benefits and convenience that freeze-dried breast milk offers.

Conclusion: Why freeze-dried breast milk is a worthwhile investment

Freeze-drying is an intensive process. With careful processing, nutrients and various properties of breast milk can be largely preserved, depending on the component and conditions. We understand that our service is not affordable for everyone and continue to look for ways to make our process more efficient.

We hope that our services will be more accessible to more mothers in the future. We also hope that this insight into our process makes it clear why our prices are the way they are and that we are not just looking at profit, but above all about providing a high-quality and valuable service to parents and their babies.

At Milksy Babyfood we strive to provide the best care and quality to parents who want the best for their children. By understanding our process, we hope our customers see the value and necessity of our pricing. Freeze-dried breast milk is not just a product; it is an investment in the health and well-being of your baby and, above all, in the comfort of the parents.