How long does breast milk keep in the deep freezer?

How Long Does Breast Milk Keep in the Deep Freezer?
Breastfeeding mothers often find themselves navigating the complexities of milk storage, especially when it comes to freezing expressed breast milk for later use. Understanding how long breast milk can be safely stored in a deep freezer is crucial for ensuring both the quality of the milk and the health of the baby.
Storage Duration in Deep Freezers
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 typically maintain lower temperatures than standard kitchen freezers. The key factor here is maintaining the appropriate temperature; as long as the milk is kept at or below this threshold, it remains safe for consumption.
In contrast, breast milk stored in a refrigerator freezer (the kind that is part of a refrigerator unit) has a shorter shelf life, typically around 6 months. This distinction is important for mothers who may be using different types of freezers for storage.
Thawing and Usage Guidelines
Once the breast milk is frozen, it’s essential to follow proper thawing procedures. Thawed breast milk should be used within 24 hours if it has been thawed in the refrigerator. If the milk is warmed after thawing, it must be consumed within two hours . These guidelines help ensure that the milk remains safe and nutritious for the baby.
Quality Considerations
While breast milk can technically be stored for up to a year, it’s worth noting that the quality may diminish over time. Research suggests that while the milk remains safe to consume, the nutritional value and taste may not be as optimal after several months of freezing. Therefore, many experts recommend using frozen breast milk within 6 to 9 months for the best quality.
In summary, for mothers looking to store breast milk in a deep freezer, the maximum storage time is 12 months, provided the milk is kept at the correct temperature. However, for optimal quality, it’s advisable to use the milk within 6 to 9 months. Following these guidelines will help ensure that the milk remains safe and nutritious for your little one.

What is the 4 4 4 rule for breast milk?

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.

Can babies drink cold breast milk?

Breast milk does not need to be warmed. It can be served room temperature or cold.

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.

What happens to breastmilk after a year in the freezer?

Expressed breastmilk remains high-quality in the freezer for up to six months and can be safely stored for up to a year. Even though the milk continues to be safe to drink for a year, after the six-month mark, the nutritional value begins to diminish, notes the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

How long does breastmilk last 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.

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 actually good for?

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.

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.

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.