Can you give thawed breast milk after 24 hours?

Understanding Thawed Breast Milk Storage
When it comes to feeding infants with thawed breast milk, safety and proper handling are paramount. The guidelines surrounding the use of thawed breast milk can be somewhat confusing, particularly regarding how long it remains safe for consumption after being thawed.
Thawed Breast Milk Duration
According to health experts, breast milk that has been thawed in the refrigerator must be used within 24 hours. This timeframe begins once the milk is completely thawed, not from the moment it is removed from the freezer. If the milk is thawed at room temperature or warmer, it should ideally be consumed within 1 to 2 hours.
This strict guideline is primarily due to the risk of bacterial growth. Once breast milk is thawed, it can become a breeding ground for bacteria if not consumed promptly. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) emphasizes that thawed milk should not be refrozen, as this can further increase the risk of contamination.
Why the 24-Hour Rule?
The rationale behind the 24-hour limit is rooted in food safety principles. Freshly expressed breast milk can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days, but once it has been frozen and then thawed, its shelf life is significantly reduced. This discrepancy raises questions among parents, especially when they consider the longer storage times for fresh milk. However, the thawing process alters the milk’s composition and increases the likelihood of bacterial growth, necessitating stricter guidelines.
Handling Leftovers
If your baby does not finish a bottle of thawed breast milk, the leftover milk can still be used, but it must be consumed within 2 hours after feeding. This rule helps ensure that the milk remains safe for the baby while minimizing waste.
Conclusion
In summary, while thawed breast milk can be a convenient option for feeding infants, it is crucial to adhere to the 24-hour usage guideline after thawing. This practice not only ensures the safety of the milk but also supports the health and well-being of your baby. Always prioritize proper storage and handling to make the most of your breast milk supply.

How long will breast milk last once defrosted?

Once fully thawed, previously frozen breast milk may be kept at room temperature for a maximum of two hours or in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Don’t thaw or heat frozen breast milk in a microwave or in boiling water.

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 I put thawed breast milk back in the fridge?

If your breast milk has completely thawed but still feels cold, put it in the refrigerator and use it within the next day or throw it away.

Can I mix thawed breast milk from different days?

Yes, you can mix. Honestly there’s not any evidence behind mixing different temps being unsafe. But if you mix thawed milk out, you need to use it within 24 hours.

How long can breast milk sit out after thawing?

If you thaw breast milk in the refrigerator, use it within 24 hours. Start counting the 24 hours when the breast milk is completely thawed, not from the time when you took it out of the freezer. Once breast milk is brought to room temperature or warmed, use it within 2 hours.

What happens if I use thawed breast milk after 24 hours?

Sadly, breast milk must be used within 24 hours of thawing, and it can never be refrozen. The milk is high in sugar and bacteria — left out, the milk becomes a bacteria soup. It could give the baby life-threatening diarrhea.

Can I mix yesterday’s breastmilk with today’s?

It’s okay to combine milk that’s pumped on the same day, but don’t mix milk that was pumped on different days. Some moms use the “pitcher method,” which means they store all the breast milk they pump over 24 hours in one refrigerated, closed container.

How long does frozen milk last after thawed?

Depending on the size of the container, it may take a day or longer to defrost. And once thawed, it’s best to use the milk within several days. You might notice that the thawed milk is separated or looks like it has a grainy texture. This goes for both dairy milk and plant-based milks.

What happens if a baby drinks spoiled breast milk?

They may throw up, or have an upset stomach, diarrhea or fever.

Can breast milk go from fridge to room temp back to fridge?

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.