How long can breastmilk last after thawed?

Understanding Thawed Breast Milk: Duration and Safety
Breastfeeding is a vital aspect of infant nutrition, and understanding how to properly handle breast milk is crucial for ensuring its safety and quality. One common concern among breastfeeding mothers is how long thawed breast milk can last before it needs to be discarded.
Thawed Breast Milk Duration
Once breast milk has been thawed, its shelf life varies depending on how it was thawed. If thawed in the refrigerator, breast milk can be safely stored and used within 24 hours. This method is recommended as it maintains the milk’s quality and minimizes the risk of bacterial growth.
In contrast, if breast milk is thawed at room temperature, it should be used within 2 hours. After this period, any leftover milk must be discarded to prevent potential health risks associated with bacterial contamination. This is particularly important because once breast milk is warmed or brought to room temperature, it becomes more susceptible to spoilage.
Refrigeration and Refreezing Guidelines
It’s essential to note that once breast milk has been thawed, it should not be refrozen. The risk of bacterial contamination increases significantly with each thawing cycle, making it unsafe to refreeze thawed milk. Therefore, careful planning and storage are key to ensuring that the milk remains safe for your baby.
Practical Tips for Handling Thawed Breast Milk
For mothers who express and store breast milk, here are some practical tips to ensure safety and quality:
1. Thawing Method: Always opt for refrigerator thawing when possible. This method not only extends the usability of the milk but also preserves its nutritional value.

2. Timing: Keep track of the time after thawing. If the milk has been at room temperature for more than 2 hours, it should be discarded.
3. Storage Containers: Use clean, BPA-free containers specifically designed for breast milk storage to avoid contamination.
4. Labeling: Consider labeling containers with the date and time of expression and thawing to keep track of freshness.
By following these guidelines, breastfeeding mothers can ensure that their babies receive the safest and most nutritious milk possible. Understanding the nuances of breast milk storage and thawing is essential for promoting the health and well-being of infants.

What happens if a baby drinks spoiled breast milk?

They may throw up, or have an upset stomach, diarrhea or fever.

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 until breast milk goes bad after thawing?

According to the CDC you should never refreeze breast milk once it’s been thawed. It’s good in the fridge for up to 24 hours after being thawed, and that’s it.

Can I refrigerate an unfinished bottle of breastmilk?

Any remaining breast milk left in a bottle after your baby is finished with a feeding should be used within 2 hours—or, if quickly refrigerated, used for the next feeding. You can always thaw an extra container if needed.

Why can’t you use thawed breast milk after 24 hours?

Sadly, breast milk must be used within 24 hours of thawing, and it can never be refrozen. The milk is high in sugar and bacteria — left out, the milk becomes a bacteria soup. It could give the baby life-threatening diarrhea.

How to know if breast milk is spoiled?

Human breast milk can spoil just like any other kind of milk. This leads to a sharp, sour smell and flavor. There’s no way to save spoiled milk. You should be able to tell it’s spoiled by tasting a sip of it yourself.

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 is breastmilk good for after removing from fridge?

At room temperature (77°F or colder) for up to 4 hours. In the refrigerator for up to 4 days. In the freezer for about 6 months is best; up to 12 months is acceptable.

How long can breastmilk sit out after thawed?

Don’t leave frozen breast milk to defrost at room temperature. Once fully thawed, previously frozen breast milk may be kept at room temperature for a maximum of two hours or in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Don’t thaw or heat frozen breast milk in a microwave or in boiling water.