How long does breastmilk last in freezer?

Understanding Breast Milk Storage in the Freezer
Breastfeeding mothers often find themselves navigating the complexities of storing expressed breast milk, particularly when it comes to freezing. Knowing how long breast milk can last in the freezer is crucial for ensuring that infants receive safe and nutritious feedings.
Duration of Storage
Breast milk can be stored in a freezer for an impressive duration. According to guidelines from health authorities, breast milk can remain frozen at 0°F (-18°C) or below for up to 12 months. However, for optimal quality, it is recommended to use the milk within six months. This timeframe helps maintain the nutritional value and taste of the milk, ensuring that it remains beneficial for the baby.
Types of Freezers Matter
The type of freezer used can influence the longevity of stored breast milk. While kitchen freezers typically maintain a temperature of 0°F, deep freezers or chest freezers often operate at even lower temperatures, which can extend the shelf life of the milk. It’s important to note that the storage time may be significantly shorter in older refrigerator models with small freezer compartments, where breast milk is best used within two weeks.
Thawing and Usage Guidelines
When it comes to thawing frozen breast milk, mothers should be aware of specific guidelines to ensure safety. Once breast milk is thawed in the refrigerator, it should be used within 24 hours. This countdown begins only after the milk is completely thawed, not from the moment it is removed from the freezer.
Best Practices for Storage
To maximize the quality and safety of frozen breast milk, mothers should use appropriate storage containers, such as BPA-free plastic bags or glass containers designed for freezing. Labeling the containers with the date of expression can also help in managing the inventory of stored milk, ensuring that older supplies are used first.
In summary, while breast milk can be safely stored in the freezer for up to a year, using it within six months is ideal for maintaining its quality. Proper storage techniques and adherence to thawing guidelines are essential for providing infants with the best possible nutrition.

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 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.

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.

Why can’t you use frozen breastmilk after 6 months?

Keep in mind that research suggests that the longer you store breast milk — whether in the refrigerator or in the freezer — the greater the loss of vitamin C in the milk. It’s also important to note that your breast milk changes to meet your baby’s needs.

Can babies drink cold breast milk?

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

Does breast milk go bad in freezer?

The temperature of kitchen freezers is typically 0° F. 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 do I know if breastmilk is spoiled?

Spoiled milk will have a distinctly sour and unpleasant smell, unlike the certain specific aromas associated with high lipase which are metallic, soapy, or fishy.

When does frozen milk expire?

You can safely store frozen milk in your freezer for up to six months, but for best quality, try to use it within one month of freezing. Once thawed, consume or use the milk within two to three days. If you notice any signs of spoilage after thawing, like a sour taste or rancid odors, it’s best to toss the milk out.

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.

How to know if breastmilk is spoiled?

It will also smell bad, much like spoiled cow’s milk. And, like spoiled cow’s milk, breast milk that’s old will taste sour. (It’s fine to taste your breast milk to check!) Always label your pumped milk with a time and date so you can tell how old it is.