Stuff You Should Know Short Stuff: What did we use before infant formula?
Jun 29, 2022
Dive into the fascinating history of infant feeding, exploring the role of wet nurses before formula became the go-to. Discover the 4,000-year legacy of wet nursing, its elite associations, and its darker aspects tied to exploitation. Learn how infant formula evolved from its early attempts in 1865 to its societal impact linked to feminist movements. Addressing today's formula shortage, the discussion highlights the risks of homemade alternatives and emphasizes the significance of scientifically balanced nutrition for infants.
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History and Current Practices of Wet Nursing
- Wet nurses have a long history, dating back 4,000 years, often associated with exploitation of lower classes.
- Today, breast milk sharing is more common among friends and family, and milk banks offer another alternative.
Pre-Formula Alternatives to Breast Milk
- Before modern formula, animal milk (cow, goat, donkey, etc.) was used as a substitute for breast milk.
- Another method involved feeding babies "pap," a mixture of milk toast or wet cereal, using a pap boat (similar to a gravy boat).
The Invention of Infant Formula
- The first infant formula, developed in 1865 by Justus von Liebig, contained cow's milk, malt flour, wheat, and potassium bicarbonate.
- Henri Nestlé later created a similar formula that was easier to prepare, leading to a surge in infant food brands.