Maximising the clinical use of donor human milk

The ANUE pouch maintained structural integrity, preserved nutrient content, and introduced no microbial contamination, presenting a feasible solution for safe, long-term DHM storage. The third objective explored a novel therapeutic application of DHM by evaluating its effect on Clostridioides difficile growth. In vitro experiments showed that bioactive components in pasteurised and unpasteurised DHM inhibited C. difficile, suggesting potential for DHM as an adjunct or alternative to antibiotics or faecal microbiota transplant (FMT) in treating infection.

The final objective addressed DHM quality control. Rapid mass spectrometry techniques: MALDI-TOF MS, RADIAN-ASAP, and LA-REIMS, were used to detect adulteration with cow’s milk, formula, or water. Among these, LA-REIMS emerged as the fastest and most accurate, offering robust quality assurance.

Together, these findings support broader, safer, and more sustainable clinical and emergency use of DHM. By improving long-term storage, enabling new therapeutic avenues, and enhancing quality monitoring, this research contributes to expanding the global impact of donor milk.<br><br><i>Thesis embargoed until 31st July 2030</i>.