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Understanding the Lifespan of Thawed Breast Milk
Breast milk is a precious resource for nursing mothers, and knowing how to properly store and handle it is crucial for ensuring the health and safety of infants. When it comes to thawed breast milk, specific guidelines dictate how long it remains safe for consumption.
Duration After Thawing
Once breast milk has been thawed, it is recommended to use it within 24 hours if it has been thawed in the refrigerator. This timeframe allows for safe consumption while maintaining the milk’s nutritional quality. However, if the milk has been thawed using warm water or a microwave, it should be used immediately or within two hours. This is because warming can promote bacterial growth, making it unsafe for later use.
Room Temperature Considerations
If thawed breast milk is left at room temperature, it should ideally be consumed within two hours. After this period, any remaining milk should be discarded to prevent the risk of contamination and ensure the baby’s safety.
Storage Tips
To maximize the safety and quality of breast milk, it is essential to store it properly. When thawing, always do so in the refrigerator or under running cool water, and avoid leaving it out at room temperature for extended periods. Additionally, once breast milk has been warmed, it should not be refrozen, as this can compromise its quality and safety.
In summary, thawed breast milk can last up to 24 hours in the refrigerator and should be consumed within two hours if left at room temperature or after warming. Following these guidelines helps ensure that infants receive the best nutrition without compromising their health.
Why does thawed breast milk only last 24 hours?
Breast milk isn’t homogenized, so the fats are more likely to separate than normal cow milk from the store. It also isn’t pasteurized, so it will spoil faster than store bought milk too, but if you keep it cold and don’t let the experiment run for more than a couple days it should be ok.
How long is breastmilk good after you unfreeze it?
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.
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 will frozen milk last after defrosting?
Depending on the size of the container, it may take a day or longer to defrost. And once thawed, it’s best to use the milk within several days. You might notice that the thawed milk is separated or looks like it has a grainy texture. This goes for both dairy milk and plant-based milks.
