How long is breastmilk good for in the freezer?

Understanding Breast Milk Storage in the Freezer
Breast milk is a precious resource for nursing mothers, and knowing how to store it properly is essential for maintaining its quality and safety. When it comes to freezing breast milk, the guidelines are clear and reassuring.
Storage Duration
Breast milk can be safely stored in a freezer for up to 12 months, provided that the freezer maintains a temperature of 0°F (-18°C) or below. This applies to both standard kitchen freezers and deep freezers, although deep freezers often operate at even lower temperatures, which can help preserve the milk’s quality for longer periods. However, for optimal quality, it is generally recommended to use the milk within three to six months if stored in a deep freezer.
Quality Considerations
While breast milk can technically last up to a year in the freezer, its quality may begin to decline after six months. This is particularly important for mothers who want to ensure that their babies receive the best nutrition possible. The CDC emphasizes that while the milk remains safe to consume, the taste and nutritional value may not be as high after extended storage.
Thawing and Usage
Once breast milk is frozen, it must be thawed properly to ensure safety. If 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. If the milk is warmed after thawing, it should be consumed within two hours to prevent bacterial growth.
Conclusion
In summary, breast milk can be frozen for up to 12 months, but for the best quality, it is advisable to use it within three to six months. Proper thawing and usage guidelines are crucial to ensure that the milk remains safe and nutritious for your baby. By following these recommendations, mothers can confidently store and use breast milk, providing their infants with the best possible nourishment.

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.

Is breastmilk still beneficial for 3 year old?

The Academy of American Pediatrics (AAP) has a similar stance, explaining that breastfeeding offers “significant health and developmental benefits for the child” and that there is “no evidence of psychologic or developmental harm from breastfeeding into the third year of life or longer.”

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 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.

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 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.

Does pumping every 2 hours increase milk supply?

Pump more often, from both breasts
Many women wonder how often they should pump. A general guideline is to pump every three hours. But if you’re trying to produce more breast milk, you can: Try pumping both breasts for 15 minutes every two hours for 48-72 hours.

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 frozen breast milk is bad?

The milk is likely to have a very distinctive sour smell and may even taste metallic, like soap or bitter. If it smells sour, it is very likely because of the lipase enzyme’s action on the fat content of breast milk.

Can breast milk go bad in the freezer?

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.