How long can breast milk be kept in freezer?

How Long Can Breast Milk Be Kept in the Freezer?
Breast milk is a precious resource for nursing mothers, and understanding how to store it properly is crucial for ensuring its safety and nutritional quality. When it comes to freezing breast milk, the guidelines are clear and reassuring.
Storage Duration
Breast milk can be safely stored in a freezer for up to 12 months, provided that the freezer maintains a temperature of 0°F (-18°C) or below. This applies to all types of freezers, whether they are kitchen freezers or deep freezers, as long as the temperature is consistently maintained at the required level.
However, for optimal quality, the American Academy of Pediatrics suggests that breast milk is best used within three to six months when stored in a deep freezer. This recommendation is based on the preservation of the milk’s bioactive components, which can diminish over time.
Thawing and Usage
Once frozen, breast milk should be thawed in the refrigerator or under running warm water. It’s important to note that the 24-hour countdown for safe use begins only after the milk is completely thawed, not from the moment it is removed from the freezer. After thawing, breast milk can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours but should not be refrozen.
Quality Considerations
While freezing is an effective method for extending the shelf life of breast milk, some mothers report changes in taste or smell after thawing, which can be attributed to the breakdown of certain components during the freezing process. Therefore, while the milk remains safe to consume, its sensory qualities may vary.
In summary, for mothers looking to store breast milk, the freezer offers a reliable option for long-term preservation. By adhering to the recommended guidelines, they can ensure that their milk remains safe and nutritious for their little ones.

What is the 6 6 6 rule for breast milk?

Rule #2: The Breast Milk Storage Guidelines.
Or the 6-6-6 rule. Basically, breast milk is good at room temperature for 4 or 6 hours, in the refrigerator for 4 or 6 days, and in the freezer for 4 or 6 or 12 months.

Can I freeze breast milk after 4 days in the fridge?

Freshly expressed breast milk can be stored in an insulated cooler with ice packs for up to one day. Refrigerator. Freshly expressed breast milk can be stored in the back of the refrigerator for up to four days in clean conditions. However, it’s optimal to use or freeze the milk within three days.

Can I use 3 year old frozen breast milk?

If you have a deep freezer you can keep up to 12 months. Up to 6 months is best ,but CDC and AAP say 12 months. Always use oldest milk first to reduce risk of it expiring/wasting. Make sure you thaw it out properly. Thawing in the fridge overnight is best. Once it’s thawed and make sure you use it within 24 hours.

How do you know if breast milk is bad after freezing?

Do a lipase test on your stored breastmilk! The sooner you do this the better! Thaw a frozen bag of breastmilk to see if it has a soapy or metallic smell/taste. Try feeding it to your baby and see if they drink it.

When does frozen breastmilk expire?

As long as the temperature of the freezer is 0°F or below, the type of freezer does not matter. The temperature of kitchen freezers is typically 0° F. Deep freezers and chest freezers may be colder than 0°F. Breast milk can be stored at 0° F or colder for up to 12 months, although using it within 6 months is best.

Will spoiled breast milk harm a baby?

Can babies get sick from old breast milk? If your baby has had spoiled breast milk, they’ll likely let you know. They may throw up, or have an upset stomach, diarrhea or fever. It’s important to call your pediatrician if you think your baby may be sick from having spoiled breast milk.

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.

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.

How long does breast milk get spoiled in the breast?

No, breast milk doesn’t spoil inside the breast. It’s produced on demand and maintains its freshness.

How long will my freezer stash of breastmilk last?

Breast milk can be stored at 0° F or colder for up to 12 months, although using it within 6 months is best. Count the age of the milk from the first time it was frozen, regardless of when it was moved. Moving frozen breast milk between freezer locations should be done quickly to ensure that the milk stays frozen.