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Seal milk Rivals Human Breast Milk in Nutritional Value, Study finds
Amsterdam, Netherlands – November 26, 2025 – A groundbreaking new study published today challenges long-held assumptions about infant nutrition, revealing that milk from seals possesses a comparable nutritional profile to human breast milk. Researchers at the University of Groningen found that seal milk contains similar levels of essential fatty acids, proteins, and carbohydrates crucial for infant growth, potentially offering a viable alternative for mothers unable to breastfeed or facing challenges with milk production.
The findings, published in the journal Marine Mammal Science, stem from a detailed analysis of milk samples collected from harbor seals at the pieterburen Seal Sanctuary. While seal milk differs in its higher fat content - an adaptation to the energy demands of pups in cold marine environments – the composition of those fats, along with other key nutrients, closely mirrors that of human breast milk. This finding could have important implications for infant formula development and provide a enduring resource for families in need,particularly as global demand for infant formula continues to rise.
“We were surprised to find such a striking similarity,” said Dr. Liesbeth van der Meer, lead author of the study and a specialist in marine mammal physiology.”Seal milk is specifically designed for rapid growth and development in a challenging habitat. The fact that its composition aligns so well with human needs suggests a remarkable convergence in evolutionary solutions for nourishing offspring.”
The research team analyzed the milk for macronutrient composition, including fats, proteins, and carbohydrates, as well as micronutrients like vitamins and minerals. They found that seal milk contains a high concentration of DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), an omega-3 fatty acid vital for brain and eye development, comparable to levels found in human breast milk. Moreover, the protein structure in seal milk is readily digestible for human infants, according to preliminary in vitro studies.
However, researchers caution that seal milk is not currently suitable for direct human consumption. the milk contains higher concentrations of certain compounds, like selenium, that would require processing to ensure safety for human infants.Further research is needed to determine the optimal methods for processing seal milk into a safe and effective infant formula.
The study builds upon previous research highlighting the nutritional benefits of marine mammal milk. Scientists have long recognized the unique adaptations of seal milk to support rapid growth in cold waters. This latest research, however, focuses specifically on the parallels with human infant nutritional needs, opening up new avenues for exploration in the field of infant nutrition.
The university of Groningen team is now seeking funding to conduct clinical trials to assess the safety and efficacy of seal milk-based formula in human infants. They anticipate that, with further development, seal milk could become a sustainable and nutritious alternative to traditional infant formula options, offering a lifeline to families worldwide.
