Home » Blog » Breastfeeding » Does TSA check breast milk?

Does TSA check breast milk?

TSA Regulations on Breast Milk
Traveling with breast milk can be a significant concern for nursing mothers, especially when navigating airport security. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has specific guidelines that allow passengers to carry breast milk in quantities greater than the standard liquid limit. According to TSA regulations, breast milk, formula, and other toddler drinks are permitted in carry-on baggage without the need to fit within the typical quart-sized bag. This exemption applies to liquids over 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).
Screening Procedures
When it comes to screening, TSA officers are trained to handle medically necessary liquids, including breast milk. Passengers are required to remove these items from their carry-on bags for separate screening. This process is designed to ensure safety while accommodating the needs of traveling families. If the breast milk is frozen, it typically undergoes a visual inspection, which is less invasive. However, if the milk is thawed, TSA agents may conduct additional tests for explosives, although passengers have the right to refuse such tests.
Rights and Recommendations
Mothers traveling with breast milk do not need to be accompanied by their child to carry these liquids. The TSA recognizes breast milk as a medically necessary liquid, which provides additional flexibility for nursing mothers. It is advisable for travelers to be prepared and informed about their rights, as this can help alleviate stress during the security process.
In summary, the TSA has established clear guidelines that facilitate the travel of nursing mothers with breast milk, ensuring that they can carry necessary supplies without undue hassle while maintaining security protocols.

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.

Does breast milk need to be frozen for TSA?

TSA regulations state that you can bring any amount of breast milk and that ice packs need not be frozen, but agents have told me multiple times that it’s easier if they are frozen solid. This cooler bag:

Does TSA have to test your breastmilk?

TSA officers may need to test the liquids for explosives or concealed prohibited items. Although not required, to expedite the screening process, it is recommended that formula and breast milk be transported in clear, translucent bottles and not plastic bags or pouches.

What happens if I don’t breastfeed for 3 days?

You may have some milk leak from your breasts, and your breasts may feel sore and swollen. This is called engorgement. It usually gets better after several days. Over time, your body will stop making milk if you don’t breastfeed or pump.

What is the 120 breastfeeding rule?

The 120-minute rule is a helpful guideline for exclusive pumpers. It suggests spending at least 120 minutes (or 2 hours) each day pumping. How you divide that time depends on your baby’s age.

How do I get my baby milk through TSA?

Inform the TSA officer at the beginning of the screening process that you are carrying formula, breast milk, toddler drinks, and baby/toddler food (to include puree pouches) in excess of 3.4 ounces. Remove these items from your carry-on bag to be screened separately from your other belongings.

How much baby milk can you take through airport security?

Here’s all you need to know. First off it’s important to know that the 100ml limit for liquids doesn’t apply to formula, or the water you need for making it, so technically you can take as much as you’d need to last the flight.

How to take expressed breast milk on a plane?

It must be in liquid form, not frozen, and must be presented in individual containers no larger than 2l. The milk will be subjected to screening and, if successful, will be allowed on board an aircraft. Passengers will not have to be accompanied by the breastfeeding infant.

Do I need my baby’s birth certificate to fly?

You may have to present proof of age like a birth certificate for any children under the age of 18. Families with children under 2 years old can ask to board early at the gate. Only 1 carry-on diaper bag per child is allowed.

What is the 3-3-3 rule for breast milk?

The ‘Rule of Three’ guideline suggests allowing the baby to nurse for at least three minutes on each breast to ensure they receive a balance of foremilk (initial, thirst-quenching milk) and hindmilk (higher-fat, calorie-rich milk).

Natasha Lunn

Tash is an IBCLC and Business Coach helping fellow IBCLCs create fun, profitable businesses that are more than just an expensive hobby. Before becoming an IBCLC and starting her private practice - The Boobala, Tash graduated as an Osteopath in 2008 and has been in Private Practice in South West Sydney. She was also a volunteer Breastfeeding Counsellor and Community Educator with the Australian Breastfeeding Association for 6 years. Through her business, Your Lactation Biz, Tash coaches and creates products to help new and seasoned IBCLCs build businesses that suit their personality and lifestyle.

Leave a Comment