Profiles of commensal and opportunistic bacteria in human milk from healthy donors in Taiwan

In conclusion, each milk sample revealed a unique profile and patterns of bacterial abundance levels, and our data do not support the idea that lactobacilli and bifidobacteria are common and abundant in modern milk samples. Because none of the donors of the milk samples showed mastitis or any discomfort during the sampling process or at follow-up inspection, the microbiota of these milk samples is not likely to negatively affect its host. This study provides new information on the proportions of commensal bacteria in human milk in Taiwan.Graphical abstractBacterial species composition in human milk samples from healthy donors in Taiwan are shown. The milk microbiota was measured using a molecular-based approach. Only four Lactobacillus species were detected in 7 samples, and bifidobacterial species were rare. However, the Staphylococcus aureus was commonly found in milk from healthy donors, and this species was detected in a total of 15 samples. Colostrum (C: C1 to C20) and transitional milk (T: T1 to T10) showed contrasting bacterial profiles. This confirms previous research showing that the human breast milk microbiota is unique to each mother.
Source: Journal of Food and Drug Analysis - Category: Food Science Source Type: research