10058431Development of a novel device to improve the breast milk microbiomeClosedCollaborative R&DInnovate UKBoobyBiome is passionate about **empowering parents** and improving the **health of their babies** by designing products which support the infant microbiome. A healthy gut microbiome is crucial in regulating digestive, immune and metabolic functions. The breastmilk microbiome contributes **40%** of the first beneficial gut bacteria to infants. However current rates of breastfeeding are poor and preterm babies, C-section and formula-fed infants have reduced access to breastmilk. These babies have an **increased risk** of developing microbiome-related diseases, including necrotising enterocolitis, diabetes, IBS and obesity. BoobyBiome is currently developing a breastmilk-derived microbiome supplement for infants with compromised microbiomes. Throughout R&D, it became clear that certain breastfeeding methods diminish the **viability** of positive microbial communities in breastmilk. We are consequently implementing a multi-faceted approach to improving infant gut health, by sustaining the milk-derived bacteria that these babies are lacking. With this project, BoobyBiome will develop a **method to** **protect the breast milk microbiome** so all babies may be able to benefit from the thriving bacterial communities discussed, irrespective of how they receive their milk. We will: **1)** Develop a prototype, **2)** Conduct effective iterations of prototype testing and **3)** Finish with a patented, trademarked product with manufacturing and commercialisation mapped out for the next phase. As a team of female entrepreneurs and scientists we are well positioned to meet these deliverables. Key to milestone completion is our close association with the **academic community** and our **experienced advisory team**, including Dr. Bajaj-Elliott of the UCL Institute of Child Health. Effective, affordable access to breastmilk microbial communities allows for **all babies** to develop a healthy microbiome and every parent to provide that. BoobyBiome is committed to producing a **scientifically-valid** product that is **trusted** by parents, accessible to all babies, and which has the potential to **exert real change in the healthcare sector.**