Does freezing breastmilk destroy antibodies?

The Impact of Freezing on Breast Milk Antibodies
The question of whether freezing breast milk destroys antibodies is a significant concern for many parents and caregivers. Breast milk is renowned for its rich composition of nutrients and immune-boosting antibodies, which play a crucial role in protecting infants from infections and diseases. Understanding how freezing affects these vital components is essential for ensuring that babies receive the best possible nutrition.
Freezing and Antibody Stability
Research indicates that freezing breast milk does not significantly destroy its antibodies. In fact, studies have shown that while some changes occur in the composition of breast milk during freezing, the immunological properties, including antibodies, remain largely intact. For instance, a study highlighted that freezing breast milk at temperatures below -20°C is effective for preserving its nutritional and immunological qualities. This suggests that parents can confidently freeze breast milk without fearing a substantial loss of its protective benefits.
Preservation of Immune Factors
Breast milk contains various immune factors, including immunoglobulins, which are crucial for an infant’s immune defense. While some degradation of these components can occur over time, the overall consensus is that freezing does not eliminate the antibodies present in breast milk. A specific study noted that even after two months of storage at -20°C, the transmission of cytomegalovirus (CMV) was not prevented, indicating that the immune properties of the milk were preserved. This is particularly relevant for preterm infants who may rely on frozen milk from CMV-seropositive mothers.
Best Practices for Freezing
To maximize the retention of antibodies and other beneficial components, it is essential to follow best practices for freezing breast milk. This includes using clean, sterilized containers and ensuring that the milk is frozen promptly after expression. Additionally, it is advisable to label containers with the date of expression to keep track of storage times, as the quality of breast milk can diminish over extended periods, even in the freezer.
Conclusion
In summary, freezing breast milk does not destroy antibodies to a significant extent, allowing parents to store milk safely for later use without compromising its immune-boosting properties. By adhering to proper storage guidelines, caregivers can ensure that their infants continue to benefit from the protective qualities of breast milk, even when it has been frozen. This understanding provides reassurance to parents navigating the complexities of infant nutrition and health.

Do breastmilk antibodies survive freezing?

Remember to label the breast milk with the date that you pumped it. Thaw milk in the refrigerator or in warm water just before feeding. Thawed milk must be used within 24 hours. Note: freezing breastmilk destroys some of its antibodies.

Does freezing damage breast milk?

In neonatal units and human milk banks freezing breastmilk at less than –20°C is the choice for preserving it. Scientific evidence in relation to the loss of nutritional quality during freezing is rare.

Is 2oz of breastmilk a day beneficial?

The good news: Any amount of breast milk is beneficial for your baby, whether you’re exclusively breastfeeding or supplementing with formula – and whether you’re nursing, pumping some breast milk, or exclusively pumping.

Does frozen breast milk lose benefits?

Keep in mind that research suggests that the longer you store breast milk — whether in the refrigerator or in the freezer — the greater the loss of vitamin C in the milk. It’s also important to note that your breast milk changes to meet your baby’s needs.

Does frozen breastmilk have antibodies?

Frozen Breast Milk Retains Most of Its Nutrients
Previously frozen breast milk has similar nutrient and antibody content to fresh milk. It does lose a small amount of those qualities but can still provide a baby with the nutrition it needs.

What are the cons of freezing milk?

Frozen and defrosted milk is best suited for cooking, baking, or making smoothies. It may undergo some changes in texture that make it unpleasant to use as a beverage. These include being slushy, grainy, or having some fat separation. However, it’s safe to drink if it was stored and defrosted properly.

Do antibodies survive in frozen breastmilk?

Thaw milk in the refrigerator or in warm water just before feeding. Thawed milk must be used within 24 hours. Note: freezing breastmilk destroys some of its antibodies.

When does breast milk stop producing antibodies?

First, breast milk is full of antibodies. These antibodies are highest in colostrum, the milk your baby receives at birth and during the first few days afterward. The antibodies also continue to be present in your milk the WHOLE time you’re nursing your baby, even if you nurse well into toddlerhood or beyond.

What are the disadvantages of frozen milk?

One common issue that arises when cow milk is frozen is its tendency to change consistency or texture. In particular, when frozen milk is brought back to liquid form, fat can separate, resulting in a graininess that some find worrisome or even off-putting.

How many ounces of breastmilk does a baby need to get antibodies?

In fact, there is some research that indicates that even as little as 50 ml of breastmilk per day may help prevent disease in breastfed babies. Additionally, our body recognizes the importance of this protection and increases the concentration of SigA as our milk supply begins to decrease.