Arts
What if, in the future, babies could drink breast milk from both of their parents? (No, we're not talking about lactating men.) Research Triangle-based Biomilq applies stem cell technology (commonly used in cellular agriculture) to create custom breast milk from mammalian cells, regardless of gender, age, or even species. In this episode, we talk with CEO Michelle Egger about this potentially life-changing technology and why infant nutrition is key to raising a healthy baby. We also learn why they want a bioethicist on their team, and the most curious and common question moms have about this product (hint: it's not about nutrition--it's socio-cultural). Biomilq is still a few years away from market, pending regulatory and consumer hurdles. In the meantime, they are activating meaningful conversations around these topics to help moms make empowered, informed choices about the best way to feed their children. And they're finding ways to ensure their end product is inclusive for moms at all income levels. While it feels like science fiction to say, soon, parents will be able to get lab-grown breast milk replicated by cells from their own bodies instead of turning to formula.