New Research Shows Human Milk Diet Reduces Death Risk in Premature Infants by 20%

Exclusive Human Milk Diet Reduces Mortality in Premature Infants

A recent systematic review and meta-analysis published in Frontiers in Nutrition has revealed compelling evidence that an exclusive human milk diet (EHMD) can substantially lower the odds of death in premature and very low birthweight (VLBW) infants. This extensive study analyzed 14 different studies involving a total of 4,713 infants and found that a diet based solely on human milk was associated with a 20% reduction in mortality before hospital discharge compared to diets that included cow milk-based nutritional products.

Overview of the Study

The study involved a comprehensive analysis of both randomized controlled trials and non-randomized cohort studies, including a variety of infants born between 2004 and 2021. The average birthweight of the infants in these studies ranged from 741 g to 1361 g, and their gestational ages varied from 25.5 to 29.7 weeks. This systematic review examined all available data, thus enabling a robust understanding of the effects of dietary choices during neonatal care.

Key findings indicated that the odds of mortality among infants fed an EHMD were significantly lower (odds ratio of 0.80; 95% CI, 0.65-0.98; P = .03). Researchers noted that the results favored the exclusive human milk diet across both types of studies. Dr. Melinda Elliott, a neonatologist and the chief medical officer at Prolacta, emphasized the importance of this data for NICU teams: "This comprehensive meta-analysis shows a consistent association favoring an exclusive human milk diet across different study designs."

Implications of the Findings

This meta-analysis adds to a growing body of research that highlights the advantages of EHMD for very low birthweight infants. Previous studies have also pointed to the benefits of human milk diets in reducing the incidence of necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), a severe intestinal disease prevalent among premature infants. For instance, a recent systematic review by Reyes and colleagues indicated that the use of human milk-based fortifiers has been associated with lower odds of developing NEC compared to diets containing cow milk products.

Prolacta Bioscience, which specializes in human milk-based fortifiers and formulas, has been at the forefront of this research. Since its establishment, Prolacta has positively impacted the lives of over 125,000 vulnerable infants worldwide. As of late 2025, Prolacta made strides in Japan by attaining prescription drug status for its PreemieFort® fortifiers, specifically designed for VLBW infants and other vulnerable populations. This development reflects a growing recognition of the significance of human milk nutrition in neonatal care.

The Future of Infant Nutrition

Prolacta adheres to rigorous quality and safety standards in its production processes, including more than 20 donor milk screening tests to ensure the highest quality of its products. Its unique vat pasteurization method preserves the beneficial bioactive components of human milk, supporting immune protection, brain development, and overall growth among premature infants.

This meta-analysis serves as a reminder of the critical importance of proper nutrition in the earliest days of life for infants born prematurely. It revolutionizes how healthcare professionals approach the dietary needs of these vulnerable populations and reinforces the need for policies and practices that prioritize human milk-based nutrition in neonatal units.

As more evidence emerges supporting the benefits of exclusive human milk diets, it is crucial for healthcare providers, policymakers, and families to advocate for and implement best practices in neonatal nutrition. The journey of Prolacta and its impact on infant health continues to evolve, paving the way for improved outcomes for generations to come.