How long can breastmilk last in a deep freezer?

How Long Can Breastmilk Last in a Deep Freezer?
Breastfeeding mothers often find themselves navigating the complexities of milk storage, especially when it comes to ensuring that their expressed breast milk remains safe and nutritious for their babies. One of the most common questions is: How long can breastmilk last in a deep freezer?
According to guidelines from health authorities, breast milk can be stored in a deep freezer at a temperature of 0°F (-18°C) or below for up to 12 months. This applies to both chest freezers and standalone deep freezers, which tend to maintain lower temperatures than typical kitchen freezers. However, while the milk may remain safe for this duration, it is generally recommended to use it within three to six months for optimal quality and nutritional value.
Factors Influencing Storage Duration
The longevity of breast milk in a deep freezer can be influenced by several factors:
1. Freezer Type: Deep freezers, such as chest freezers, are often colder than standard kitchen freezers, which can help preserve the milk’s quality for longer periods.

2. Storage Conditions: Consistent temperatures are crucial. If the freezer maintains a steady 0°F or lower, the milk will remain safe for the maximum recommended duration.
3. Milk Quality: Freshly expressed milk is always preferable. While milk stored for several months is still beneficial, it may not have the same nutritional profile as fresher milk.
Thawing and Usage
Once thawed, breast milk should be used within 24 hours if kept in the refrigerator. It’s important to note that the 24-hour countdown begins only after the milk is completely thawed, not from the time it was removed from the freezer. This careful approach ensures that the milk remains safe for consumption and retains its beneficial properties.
In summary, while breast milk can last up to a year in a deep freezer, for the best quality, it is advisable to use it within three to six months. This balance between safety and nutritional integrity is key for breastfeeding mothers looking to provide the best for their little ones.

How do you know if breast milk has gone bad in the freezer?

Digestive enzymes and other components of breastmilk remain active even when milk is expressed or pumped. Expressed human milk may undergo odor changes when stored. Parents sometimes describe expressed or defrosted milk as smelling odd – metallic, soapy, or even rancid.

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.

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 long is frozen breast milk good for?

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.

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 frozen breastmilk expire?

According to the Mayo Clinic, frozen breast milk can last up to 12 months, but it’s best used within six months of freezing in a deep freezer.

What happens if a baby drank spoiled breast milk?

This bacteria can cause digestive tract infections such as diarrhea. If a baby has diarrhea, he will become more fussy and become dehydrated. Because, a lot of fluid comes out of his body. If something like this happens, immediately take it to the doctor so the baby can get help.

Is breast milk still good after 2 years?

There are many professional associations that recommend breastfeeding beyond 1 year, but to date there is no evidence that extended breastfeeding is harmful in any way. There is currently no known age when breastmilk is considered to be nutritionally insignificant for a child.

How long can breast milk stay in the deep freezer?

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. Count the age of the milk from the first time it was frozen, regardless of when it was moved.

How long is breast milk good in a deep freezer?

Deep freezer.
Freshly expressed breast milk can be stored in the back of a deep freezer for up to 12 months. However, using the frozen milk within six months is optimal.