How long can you keep fortified breast milk?

Understanding the Storage of Fortified Breast Milk
Fortified breast milk is an essential resource for many infants, particularly those who are premature or have specific nutritional needs. However, understanding how long this milk can be safely stored is crucial for ensuring the health and safety of these vulnerable babies.
Storage Guidelines for Fortified Breast Milk
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), breast milk, including fortified varieties, can be stored in various conditions, each with specific time limits. When stored in a refrigerator at temperatures of 39°F (4°C) or lower, fortified breast milk can last for up to 4 days. If you need to store it longer, freezing is an option. When kept in a freezer at 0°F (-18°C) or below, fortified breast milk can be stored for up to 12 months. However, for optimal quality, it is recommended to use it within 6 months.
Room Temperature Considerations
When it comes to room temperature, the guidelines are more stringent. Fortified breast milk should not be left out for more than one to two hours. After this period, any remaining milk should be discarded to prevent the risk of bacterial growth, which is particularly concerning for premature infants who are more susceptible to infections.
Best Practices for Handling Fortified Breast Milk
To ensure the safety and nutritional quality of fortified breast milk, it is essential to follow best practices for handling and storage. Always use clean containers specifically designed for breast milk storage, and label them with the date and time of expression. If transporting milk, insulated coolers with frozen ice packs can keep it safe for up to 24 hours.
Conclusion
In summary, fortified breast milk can be a lifeline for infants needing additional nutrition. By adhering to the recommended storage guidelines—up to 4 days in the refrigerator, 12 months in the freezer, and strict limits at room temperature—parents and caregivers can ensure that this vital resource remains safe and effective for their little ones.

How long does fortified milk last after opening?

Once opened, it should be refrigerated and used within seven days. (UHT) stands for ‘ultra-heat treatment’ milk – also known as long-life milk. This product is heated to 140°C for two seconds, destroying any trace of harmful bacteria and other micro-organisms, which helps to extend its shelf life.

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.

At what age is breast milk no longer beneficial?

Breastmilk or infant formula should be your baby’s main source of nutrition for around the first year of life. Health professionals recommend exclusive breastfeeding for 6 months, with a gradual introduction of appropriate foods in the second 6 months and ongoing breastfeeding for 2 years or beyond.

How long is breastmilk good once?

Freshly expressed or pumped milk can be stored: 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.

What are the risks of fortifying breast milk?

Since all the commonly used commercially prepared fortifiers are made from cow’s milk proteins (like regular formulas), some babies may have difficulty initially when the fortifier is added. They may have delayed emptying from the stomach, abdominal distention or even gas. The stools may change somewhat in color.

Does breastmilk lose nutrients when pumped?

According to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), freshly expressed breast milk can be safely kept at room temperature (77°F or colder) for up to 4 hours. Generally, when freshly pumped, breast milk is at its peak regarding nutrients.

How long is fortified breast milk good for in the fridge?

Refrigerator. Freshly expressed breast milk can be stored in the back of the refrigerator for up to five days in clean conditions. However, use or freezer storage within three days is optimal.

When to stop fortified breast milk?

It is generally recommended (5,23) to gradually stop adding breast milk fortifier when the weight, length, and head circumference of gestational age infants are located in P25-P50 of the same gender and age infants, and when the small gestational age premature infants reach P10.

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 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.