Can I use breastmilk that has been in the fridge for 5 days?

Understanding the Safety of Refrigerated Breast Milk
Breastfeeding and the storage of breast milk are critical topics for new parents and caregivers. With the ongoing quest for the best nutrition for infants, many wonder about the safety and viability of stored breast milk, particularly how long it can be kept in the refrigerator.
Storage Guidelines
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), freshly expressed breast milk can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. After this period, the quality and safety of the milk may decline, making it essential to adhere to recommended storage guidelines to ensure the health of the infant.
When it comes to breast milk that has been in the fridge for 5 days, it is generally advised that it should not be used. The risk of bacterial growth increases after the 4-day mark. While some parents may choose to smell or visually inspect the milk, these methods are not foolproof. Bacteria can proliferate without noticeable changes in appearance or odor.
Best Practices for Storing Breast Milk
To maximize the shelf life and safety of breast milk, consider the following best practices:
1. Store in Clean Containers: Use BPA-free bottles or bags specifically designed for breast milk storage.
2. Label and Date: Clearly label each container with the date and time of expression to keep track of storage duration.
3. Refrigerator Temperature: Ensure that your refrigerator is set at or below 4°C (39°F) to maintain the freshness of the milk.
4. Use Ice Packs: If you need to transport breast milk, consider using ice packs to keep it cool.
What to Do with Expired Milk
If you find yourself with breast milk that has been stored for more than 4 days, it is best to dispose of it. While the waste may seem regrettable, the health and safety of your baby must take precedence.
Conclusion
In summary, breast milk that has been refrigerated for 5 days is not safe for consumption and should be discarded. Adhering to storage guidelines is crucial for ensuring that your baby receives the best possible nutrition. For parents navigating the complexities of breastfeeding, staying informed about safe practices can help maintain the health and well-being of their little ones.

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.

How long can breast milk sit out after being refrigerated?

And remember, freshly pumped milk that has been left unrefrigerated for longer than four hours should be thrown away, regardless of whether it’s been used in a feeding or not. Previously frozen milk should be used within 24 hours once thawed and refrigerated. If left on the counter, throw out after 2 hours.

Can I use breast milk that’s been in the fridge for 6 days?

According to the AAP, once your milk is in the refrigerator, you have up to four days to use it. After the four days are up, you’ll need to discard it. Once your milk is taken out of the fridge, feed it to your baby within 4 to 8 hours.

Does milk go bad after 5 days?

Milk can be refrigerated seven days; buttermilk, about two weeks. Milk or buttermilk may be frozen for about three months. Sour cream is safe in the refrigerator about one to three weeks but doesn’t freeze well. For more information, you may call the FDA toll-free at 888-723-3366 or go to FDA’s website.

Is 5 day old milk still good?

Milk can often be consumed after its expiration date, generally for up to three days for opened milk and up to seven days for unopened milk. Before consuming, it’s best to look for signs of spoilage. You can tell if milk is bad by checking the smell, color, consistency and taste.

Is it bad my baby drank breast milk that’s been left out for 5 hours?

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.

Is breast milk OK after 5 days in fridge?

At 4 °C (39 °F) or below, the optimal storage time is 4 days, but 5–8 days may be acceptable for breast milk collected under very clean conditions and stored towards the back of the fridge (ABM, 2017).

What happens if a baby drinks breast milk that sits too long?

“One of the risks of breastmilk left out too long is growth of bacteria, which can’t be detected on visual inspection.” There isn’t a specific appearance, for example, or color of milk that denotes it’s “bad.” But milk that’s left out too long can result in vomiting or diarrhea in your baby, Dr.

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.

Can I use 5 day old breastmilk?

Breast milk is best stored in the back of the refrigerator (39°F or 4°C), where there are fewer temperature fluctuations. It is best to use refrigerated breast milk within 4 days.