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Kits used to collect breast milk should not be used to feed babies because of the “serious” risk of choking, health authorities warned today.
The SteriFeed Colostrum Collector is a syringe-like device that expectant and new mothers use to collect colostrum – the first milk that pregnant women produce.
It is designed to store up to 1ml of thick, golden and highly nutritious milk and comes with a cap so that the liquid does not leak when freezing before use.
The tool is not intended for feeding.
However, the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) said the device’s cap became stuck in the throats of six newborns when it was used for feeding and the stopper was not removed.
Although none were fatal, an infant required emergency surgery.
The SteriFeed Colostrum Collector is a syringe-like device that expectant and new mothers use to collect colostrum – the fluid that the breasts produce starting at 37 weeks and in the first few days after birth
The device is designed to store up to 1ml of thick, golden and highly nutritious milk and comes with a lid to prevent the liquid from leaking while it is frozen before use
However, the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) said the device’s cap became stuck in the throats of six newborns when it was used for feeding and the stopper was not removed
Dr. Alison Cave, MHRA chief safety officer, said: “Patient safety is our top priority.”
“We strongly recommend that anyone using the SteriFeed Colostrum Collector contact their doctor for advice on collecting colostrum and feeding an infant safely.”
“This device is not intended to feed your baby directly as there is a choking hazard if the cap is not removed.”
“Seek immediate medical attention if your child or a child in your care swallows an object and please report any incidents relating to these devices to our Yellow Card system.”
The device, manufactured by Devon-based Medicare Colgate, is supplied by some NHS trusts and can be purchased by the public online.
The company will now change the design of its device to minimize the risk of choking. However, implementation will take six months, the MHRA said.
The regulator urged parents to seek advice from healthcare professionals on how to safely feed harvested colostrum to their baby.
Colostrum, known as “liquid gold,” is often collected starting at 37 weeks.
The nutrient-rich milk contains antibodies that protect babies from infections and support the development of their immune systems.
According to the NHS, it also supports the development of babies’ digestive systems, which protects them from allergies.
Additionally, milk encourages babies to open their intestines and pass “meconium” – their first black, sticky feces – which reduces the risk of jaundice.
Because it is a very concentrated food, babies only need about a teaspoon of it at each feeding.
The Health Service recommends collecting and freezing colostrum in the final weeks of pregnancy.