How long is breastmilk good in a deep freezer?

Understanding Breast Milk Storage in Deep Freezers
When it comes to storing breast milk, many parents are keen to understand how long they can safely keep it in a deep freezer. This is particularly important for those who may need to pump and store milk for later use, whether due to returning to work or simply wanting to have a supply on hand.
Optimal Storage Duration
According to guidelines from health organizations, breast milk can be stored in a deep freezer—such as a chest freezer—at a temperature of 0 degrees Fahrenheit (-18 degrees Celsius) or lower for up to 12 months. However, for the best quality and nutritional value, it is recommended to use the milk within three to six months. This timeframe ensures that the milk retains its beneficial properties, which are crucial for the baby’s growth and development.
Quality Over Time
While breast milk stored for longer periods can still be safe to use, its quality may diminish. Research indicates that while milk frozen for several months remains beneficial, fresher milk is generally preferred because it is tailored to the baby’s current nutritional needs. Therefore, while milk from earlier months is still acceptable, parents are encouraged to prioritize using the freshest milk available.
Thawing and Usage Guidelines
Once breast milk is thawed, it should be used within 24 hours if kept in the refrigerator. It’s important to note that the 24-hour countdown begins only after the milk is completely thawed, not from the moment it is removed from the freezer. This careful handling ensures that the milk remains safe and nutritious for the baby.
In summary, while breast milk can be stored in a deep freezer for up to a year, aiming to use it within three to six months is ideal for maintaining its quality. Parents should also be mindful of proper thawing and usage practices to ensure their little ones receive the best nutrition possible.

What happens to breastmilk after 1 year in the freezer?

There’s nothing to suggest long-term frozen breastmilk will harbor pathogens, but it seems likely that there is some degradation of nutrients. I will say these figures are small — say, 3 to 10%. Put differently: if you feed your baby milk that has been frozen for 6 months, they might need more.

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 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.

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 long can breast milk last in a deep freezer?

12 months
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.’);})();(function(){window.jsl.dh(‘tJFoZ_fqLeTuseMP3fSvmQk__33′,’

Can I use 2 year old frozen breast milk?

Milk past 12 months in deep freeze is SAFE to use but may experience some degradation of the fats and nutritional qualities.

Does breastmilk lose nutrients in the freezer?

Previously frozen breast milk has similar nutrient and antibody content to fresh milk. It does lose a small amount of those qualities but can still provide a baby with the nutrition it needs.

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 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.