Can you refreeze breast milk for popsicles?

Can You Refreeze Breast Milk for Popsicles? A Guide for Parents
As summer approaches, the temptation to create refreshing treats like popsicles increases, especially for parents looking to offer nutritious snacks to their little ones. One question that frequently arises is whether breast milk can be refrozen for this purpose. The answer isn’t as straightforward as one might hope, as it involves considerations of safety, nutrition, and best practices.
Understanding Breast Milk Storage
Breast milk is a remarkable substance, rich in nutrients, antibodies, and enzymes that support a baby’s growth and development. However, its handling and storage require careful attention. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), breast milk should be stored in clean containers and can be frozen for later use. While freezing preserves the milk’s nutritional value, the question of refreezing is a bit more complex.
The Refreezing Dilemma
When it comes to refreezing breast milk, it is generally not recommended. The CDC advises that breast milk should only be thawed once. The reasoning behind this guideline centers on the potential for bacterial growth. Each time breast milk is thawed, it can be exposed to temperatures that allow bacteria to multiply. If the milk is then refrozen, those bacteria can survive freezing, posing a risk to the baby upon consumption.
Making Breast Milk Popsicles Safely
If you’re keen on making breast milk popsicles, consider these best practices:
1. Use Freshly Pumped Milk: Always start with freshly expressed breast milk if possible. This reduces the risk of bacterial contamination.

2. Thawing Properly: If you need to thaw frozen milk, do so in the refrigerator or by placing the container in warm water. Avoid thawing at room temperature.
3. One-Time Use: Once breast milk is thawed, it should be used within 24 hours and not refrozen.
4. Creating Popsicles: Pour the freshly expressed or properly thawed breast milk into popsicle molds. You can also mix it with fruits or pureed vegetables for added flavor and nutrition.
5. Store Popsicles Safely: Once the popsicles are made, they can be stored in the freezer. These can be enjoyed as a cool treat without the risks associated with refreezing breast milk.
Conclusion
While it may be tempting to refreeze breast milk to whip up delicious popsicles, the safest approach is to avoid doing so. By following proper storage and thawing guidelines, parents can create healthy and enjoyable treats for their children without compromising safety. Remember, the well-being of your little one is paramount, and ensuring that every bite is safe is the best way to enjoy the sweet moments of summer.

Can I refreeze a breastmilk popsicle?

No. You cannot refreeze breastmilk. Breastmilk can only be frozen once. Once thawed, it needs to be used up. It can stay in the fridge for up to 48 hours after being thawed, then/or once it has been brought up to room temperature, it needs to be u…

Can you freeze breast milk multiple times?

More research is needed on whether previously frozen milk that’s been thawed can be frozen again and safely used. However, many experts recommend discarding thawed milk that isn’t used within 24 hours.

Can you freeze milk twice?

You can only freeze and de-frost milk once (never re-freeze), so if you live in a small household, this is the best option to avoid wastage.

Can you use frozen breastmilk for teething?

To make Momsicles, use a small enough mold so they can fit in a mesh food or teething feeder. This allows small pieces of the frozen breastmilk to get through to prevent baby from choking on any larger chunks that may break off. Ice cube trays that make small cubes work well.

How to make frozen breast milk popsicle?

Mold. I think our taste just love. This. Let’s put on the freezer for a few hours.

How long is breast milk good for after freezing and thawing?

Using thawed breastmilk
Milk thawed in the refrigerator must be used within 24 hours. Milk thawed to room temperature or warmer should ideally be used in 1 to 2 hours. If your baby didn’t finish the bottle, the leftover breastmilk can still be used within 2 hours after the baby is done feeding.

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 are breast milk popsicles good for?

FAQ How long do breastmilk popsicles for teething last? You can store these in the freezer for up to 6-12 months. According to the CDC, freshly pumped or expressed milk can be stored and used for up to 12 months. While using within 6 months is best, they state that up to 12 months is acceptable.

Can you freeze thaw then refreeze breast milk?

Once the power is back on, check the condition of your stored breast milk. Frozen breast milk that has started to thaw but still contains ice crystals can be refrozen. 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 you refreeze breast milk for a milk bath?

Once frozen breast milk is thawed, it’s best to use it within the first 24 hours, according to the CDC. (The AAP has less stringent recommendations and deems it’s safe to use within 48 – 72 hours if properly refrigerated.) Breast milk shouldn’t be refrozen.