Donkey’s milk is being given to newborns in certain communities of Tamilnadu and Puducherry [1]. When a baby is born, the grandmother in the family administers donkey’s milk to the newborn, the myth being that it enhances growth, promotes brain development, and improves voice. It is also perceived to be an effective remedy for cough, liver problems, loss of appetite and exhaustion [2]. Neonatologists and other healthcare personnel worldwide insist on exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life and simultaneously warn against harmful and unhygienic feeding practices.

The promotion of breast milk is emphasized worldwide, as it is species specific, enhances brain development, prevents infection and improves mother-child bonding [3]. There is no scientific evidence for the use of donkey’s milk in newborns. Myths and superstitions should not be allowed at the cost of safe feeding practices. Cognizance of prevailing harmful feeding practices in various communities and parts of the country should be a first step. Mothers’ education and community awareness in this direction should be actively promoted as a deterrent to these practices. Exclusive breast-feeding in the first six months of life is the dictum. The grandma recipe of giving donkey’s milk should give way to safe feeding practices. Not only the neonatologists and health workers, but the community as a whole should play a definitive, positive and continuing role.