How long is breastmilk good in the freezer?

Understanding Breast Milk Storage in the Freezer
Breastfeeding mothers often find themselves navigating the complexities of milk storage, particularly when it comes to freezing expressed breast milk. Knowing how long breast milk remains safe and effective in the freezer is crucial for both the health of the baby and the convenience of the mother.
Optimal Freezing Duration
According to guidelines from health authorities, breast milk can be stored in a standard freezer for up to six months while maintaining its quality. However, if the milk is stored in a deep freezer, which operates at a consistent temperature of 0°F (-18°C) or lower, it can be safely kept for up to twelve months. This distinction is important, as the type of freezer significantly impacts the longevity of the milk’s nutritional value and safety.
Temperature Matters
To ensure that breast milk remains safe for consumption, it is essential to monitor the temperature of the freezer. The CDC recommends that freezers should be maintained at 0°F or below. For those who may not have a built-in thermometer, using a freestanding appliance thermometer can help verify that the freezer is operating at the correct temperature.
Thawing and Usage Guidelines
Once breast milk has been frozen, proper thawing is equally important. Thawed breast milk should be used within 24 hours if it has been thawed in the refrigerator. If warmed, it must be consumed within two hours. Any leftover milk that has been thawed should be discarded to prevent any risk of bacterial growth.
Conclusion
In summary, breast milk can be a vital source of nutrition for infants, and understanding how to store it properly can help mothers maximize its benefits. By adhering to the recommended storage times—six months in a standard freezer and up to twelve months in a deep freezer—mothers can ensure that their expressed milk remains safe and nutritious for their babies.

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.

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 3-3-3 rule for breast milk?

The ‘Rule of Three’ guideline suggests allowing the baby to nurse for at least three minutes on each breast to ensure they receive a balance of foremilk (initial, thirst-quenching milk) and hindmilk (higher-fat, calorie-rich milk).

Why is frozen breast milk only good for 6 months?

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 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 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.

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 do you know if frozen breast milk is good?

Do a lipase test on your stored breastmilk! The sooner you do this the better! Thaw a frozen bag of breastmilk to see if it has a soapy or metallic smell/taste. Try feeding it to your baby and see if they drink it.

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.”

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.