Does TSA test frozen breastmilk?

TSA Guidelines for Traveling with Frozen Breast Milk
Traveling with breast milk can be a daunting task for nursing mothers, especially when navigating airport security. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has specific guidelines that address the transport of breast milk, including whether it needs to be frozen.
Screening Process for Breast Milk
According to TSA regulations, breast milk is classified as a medically necessary liquid. This means that it is exempt from the standard 3-1-1 liquids rule, which typically limits liquids in carry-on baggage to containers of 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less. Mothers are allowed to carry breast milk in quantities greater than this limit without needing to fit it into a quart-sized bag. However, it is essential to remove these items from your carry-on bag for separate screening at the security checkpoint.
Frozen vs. Liquid Breast Milk
While the TSA does not explicitly require breast milk to be frozen, many mothers choose to travel with it in a frozen state to ensure its freshness and safety during transit. Frozen breast milk can be transported, and it will be screened just like liquid breast milk. The TSA officers are trained to handle oversized liquids, including breast milk, with care and respect.
Mothers should be aware that if they choose to bring frozen breast milk, it may thaw during travel, especially if the journey is lengthy. Therefore, it is advisable to pack it in insulated containers with ice packs to maintain its temperature for as long as possible.
Practical Tips for Traveling with Breast Milk
1. Preparation: Before heading to the airport, ensure that your breast milk is properly stored in leak-proof containers. Labeling the containers can also help expedite the screening process.

2. Informing TSA Officers: When you arrive at the security checkpoint, inform the TSA officers that you are carrying breast milk. This proactive communication can help facilitate a smoother screening process.
3. Timing: Arrive at the airport early to allow ample time for security checks, especially if you are carrying a significant amount of breast milk.
4. Documentation: While not required, having a note from your pediatrician or a lactation consultant can be helpful, particularly if you are traveling with a large quantity of breast milk.
In summary, the TSA does allow for the transport of frozen breast milk, and it does not need to be frozen to comply with regulations. However, traveling with it in a frozen state can help ensure its quality. By following TSA guidelines and preparing adequately, nursing mothers can navigate airport security with greater ease.

Can you bring frozen bottle through TSA?

Frozen liquid items are allowed through the checkpoint as long as they are frozen solid when presented for screening. If frozen liquid items are partially melted, slushy, or have any liquid at the bottom of the container, they must meet 3-1-1 liquids requirements.

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.

Can you go through TSA with frozen breast milk?

Similar to liquids, frozen breastmilk and ice packs over 3.4oz are allowed to be carried on flights. The big difference– frozen items do NOT require any TSA testing and do not need to be removed from your luggage when going through security. Frozen items can go through the conveyer belt scanner like any normal item.

How to carry breast milk while travelling?

Transporting your breast milk. Take expressed milk home or to a childcare setting in bottles or bags, inside a cooler bag with a freezer pack. If your ice packs are defrosting then ask for a bag of crushed ice from a fast food outlet or cafe.

What is the 120 pumping rule?

The first 12 weeks of your breastfeeding journey requires frequent breastmilk removal, stimulating healthy milk production. Studies show moms who exclusively pump for a minimum of 120 minutes per day can make enough to feed their babies primarily breastmilk.

Does TSA have to test breast milk?

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 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.

Why is thawed breast milk only good for 24 hours?

Bacteria can grow rapidly in thawed milk, especially if it’s kept at room temperature or if the storage conditions are not optimal. Using the milk within 24 hours minimizes the risk of bacterial growth and ensures the milk is safe for your baby.

Can I take a bottle of baby milk 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.

Does a cooler for breastmilk count as a carry-on?

Bring your regular carry-on luggage but be prepared to explain that your pump is a medical device. Your breast milk cooler does count as a carry-on item.