Can I freeze breastmilk after its been in the fridge?

Can You Freeze Breast Milk After It’s Been in the Fridge?
When it comes to storing breast milk, many parents find themselves navigating a maze of guidelines and recommendations. One common question is whether it’s safe to freeze breast milk after it has already been stored in the refrigerator. The answer is nuanced, but generally, it is permissible to freeze breast milk that has been refrigerated, provided certain conditions are met.
Understanding Storage Guidelines
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), breast milk can be safely stored in the refrigerator for up to four days. If you find that you won’t be using the milk within this timeframe, it’s advisable to freeze it as soon as possible. The CDC emphasizes that freshly expressed breast milk should ideally be frozen immediately if it is not going to be used right away.
Once breast milk has been refrigerated, it can be frozen, but there are some important considerations. If the milk has been in the fridge for more than four days, it is recommended not to freeze it, as the risk of bacterial growth increases over time. For milk that has been stored properly in the fridge, freezing it within 24 to 48 hours is considered safe, especially if the baby is at higher risk for illness.
Best Practices for Freezing
To ensure the safety and quality of breast milk, follow these best practices:
1. Use Clean Containers: Always store breast milk in clean, BPA-free containers or breast milk storage bags designed for freezing.

2. Label and Date: Clearly label each container with the date it was expressed. This helps you keep track of how long the milk has been stored.
3. Leave Space for Expansion: When freezing, leave some space in the container as breast milk expands when frozen.
4. Avoid Refreezing: Once breast milk has been thawed, it should not be refrozen. This is crucial to prevent any potential bacterial growth.
5. Thawing Safely: When you’re ready to use the frozen milk, thaw it in the refrigerator or by placing the container in warm water. Avoid using a microwave, as it can create hot spots that may scald your baby.
Conclusion
In summary, you can freeze breast milk after it has been in the fridge, but it is essential to do so within a safe timeframe—ideally within four days of refrigeration. By adhering to proper storage guidelines and best practices, you can ensure that your breast milk remains safe and nutritious for your baby. Always prioritize the health and safety of your little one by following these recommendations closely.

Can I put breast milk back in the fridge after my baby drinks from it?

Any remaining breast milk left in a bottle after your baby is finished with a feeding should be used within 2 hours—or, if quickly refrigerated, used for the next feeding. You can always thaw an extra container if needed. Refrigerate or chill milk right after it is expressed.

Is breast milk good after 6 days in the fridge?

Storing breast milk after expressing
Freshly expressed or pumped milk can be stored: At room temperature (77°F or colder) for up to 4 hours. In the refrigerator for up to 4 days. In the freezer for about 6 months is best; up to 12 months is acceptable.

What is the 5 5 5 rule for breast milk?

Something I recommend to moms is the 5-5-5 rule. Try and use milk within five hours at room temperature, five days in the fridge, and by five months in the freezer.

How to know if breastmilk is spoiled?

It will also smell bad, much like spoiled cow’s milk. And, like spoiled cow’s milk, breast milk that’s old will taste sour. (It’s fine to taste your breast milk to check!) Always label your pumped milk with a time and date so you can tell how old it is.

Can you freeze breast milk after it’s been refrigerated?

Freshly expressed breast milk can be stored in the back of the refrigerator for up to four days in clean conditions. However, it’s optimal to use or freeze the milk within three days.

How long is breast milk good for once pulled from the fridge?

At room temperature (77°F or colder) for up to 4 hours. In the refrigerator for up to 4 days. In the freezer for about 6 months is best; up to 12 months is acceptable.

Can I save leftover breast milk in bottle?

Leftover breast milk can still be used within 2 hours after the baby is finished feeding. After 2 hours, leftover breast milk should be thrown away. To avoid wasting unfed milk, consider storing, thawing, and warming it in smaller amounts.

Can you take breast milk out of the fridge and put back in?

Don’t put leftover breast milk back in the fridge to use later or refreeze it. It’s important to follow safety guidelines for breast milk because bacteria can grow in it if you leave it out for too long.

Can I store breast milk in the fridge in a bottle?

Up to 4 days is best. Store breast milk in the back of the refrigerator. To warm breast milk, place the bottle in a bowl of warm water or run it under warm water. Do not microwave it.

Can you store breast milk in bottles with nipples and cap?

Yes, you can store the the milk in a clean bottle with the teat/nipple attached.