How long can you freeze breast milk before it goes bad?

Understanding Breast Milk Storage: Freezing Guidelines
When it comes to storing breast milk, especially in the freezer, understanding the duration for which it remains safe and nutritious is crucial for breastfeeding mothers. Breast milk can be frozen for a period ranging from six to twelve months, depending on the storage conditions and the type of freezer used.
Optimal Freezing Conditions
To ensure the best quality of frozen breast milk, it is essential to maintain the right temperature. The freezer should be set at 0°F (-18°C) or lower. This temperature helps preserve the milk’s nutrients and prevents the growth of harmful bacteria. For those using a deep freezer, the milk can last on the longer end of the spectrum, up to twelve months. However, if stored in a standard freezer compartment of a refrigerator, the recommended storage time is closer to six months.
Thawing and Usage
Once breast milk is thawed, it should be used within 24 hours if kept in the refrigerator. If the milk has been warmed, it should be consumed within two hours to minimize the risk of bacterial contamination. It’s important to note that previously frozen milk should never be refrozen after it has been thawed, as this can compromise its safety and quality.
Practical Tips for Storage
When freezing breast milk, mothers should use clean, BPA-free containers or breast milk storage bags designed for freezing. Labeling the containers with the date of expression can help keep track of how long the milk has been stored. Additionally, for those traveling, breast milk can be kept in an insulated cooler with ice packs for up to 24 hours, allowing for flexibility while on the go.
In summary, by adhering to these guidelines, breastfeeding mothers can effectively manage their breast milk supply, ensuring that their babies receive the best nutrition possible while minimizing waste.

How long does it take for breast milk to go bad in the freezer?

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 happens if a baby drinks old breast milk?

Based on research published on the Unair website, breast milk that is stored for a long time can be contaminated by various bacteria. One of them is E. coli. This bacteria can cause digestive tract infections such as diarrhea.

Can I use 2 year old frozen breast milk?

Milk past 12 months in deep freeze is SAFE to use but may experience some degradation of the fats and nutritional qualities.

Is breast milk still good after 2 years in the freezer?

Freshly expressed breast milk can be stored in the back of a deep freezer for up to 12 months.

What is the longest you can freeze breast milk?

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.

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.

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 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.

How to tell 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.

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.