First,  this post is totally my own opinion based on my present experience
doing molecular biology and protein chemistry in a lab.  This opinion is
mine alone and is not associated with any breastfeeding support group I may
be affiliated with.

I also want to say that even though my opinions my differ from some of the
posters I greatly respect their opinions as learned and considered.

Now that I've put on my protective gear.

I've noticed a slight anti-science bent to some of the posts.  This worries
me since isn't evidence based practice based on the scientific method?  How
else would we know about the wonders that breastmilk contains if someone
didn't try to isolate the plethora of components?

I've read the patents (Thank you so much Valerie!) and some of abstracts.
In my opinion I don't consider the way that Martek produces DHA and AA.
They have selected (no mutations were directly introduced into the genes)
for a strain of algae and fungi that grow under very stringent conditions
and they do stress the algae and fungi to cause higher than usual amounts of
DHA or AA to be produced.  Most extractions of fats require solvents, since
they are not water soluble.  I may not want to ingest something that may
have trace quantities of particular solvents.  However, these products do
not fit MY definition of genetically engineered.

I have to admit though, in my opinion, if I needed to use artificial baby
milk I would probably opt for paying more for the addition of DHA and AA.

I guess what I'm saying is before you totally disregard something and paint
all scientists with black lab coats - please do some research (primary
resources) and then make your decision.

Alicia Rudin, IBCLC
Gainesville, FL
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