How long is frozen breast milk actually good for?

Understanding the Shelf Life of Frozen Breast Milk
When it comes to storing breast milk, many parents are keen to understand how long it remains safe and nutritious once frozen. The guidelines provided by health organizations and experts offer clarity on this important topic.
Optimal Storage Duration
Breast milk can be safely stored in a freezer for up to 12 months at a temperature of 0°F or colder. However, for the best quality and nutrient retention, it is recommended to use the milk within 6 months of freezing. This timeframe helps ensure that the milk retains its vital nutrients and flavor, which can diminish over time.
Experts suggest that while breast milk can technically last a year in the freezer, the ideal storage duration is around 9 months. After this period, although the milk may still be safe to consume, it begins to lose some of its nutritional value.
Storage Conditions Matter
The type of freezer used can also impact the longevity of breast milk. Stand-alone deep freezers tend to maintain a more consistent temperature than kitchen freezers, which can fluctuate due to frequent opening and closing. Therefore, if you have access to a deep freezer, it is advisable to use it for storing breast milk.
Thawing and Usage Guidelines
Once frozen, breast milk must be handled carefully. Thawed milk should be used within 24 hours if it has been thawed in the refrigerator. If warmed, it should be consumed within two hours. Any leftover thawed milk should be discarded to ensure safety.
Conclusion
In summary, while frozen breast milk can last up to a year, using it within six months is optimal for maintaining its nutritional quality. Parents should also be mindful of proper thawing and usage practices to ensure their little ones receive the best possible nourishment.

How long is breastmilk good once it’s thawed?

within 24 hours
Using thawed breastmilk
Milk thawed in the refrigerator must be used within 24 hours. Milk thawed to room temperature or warmer should ideally be used in 1 to 2 hours. If your baby didn’t finish the bottle, the leftover breastmilk can still be used within 2 hours after the baby is done feeding.’);})();(function(){window.jsl.dh(‘VmVoZ7mBIr-gkdUPlPOH8A4__34′,’

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.

Why is thawed breast milk only good for 24 hours?

Bacteria can grow rapidly in thawed milk, especially if it’s kept at room temperature or if the storage conditions are not optimal. Using the milk within 24 hours minimizes the risk of bacterial growth and ensures the milk is safe for your baby.

Can I use 10 month old frozen breast milk?

The American Academy of Pediatrics currently recommends that deeply frozen (below 0 degrees) breast milk can be kept for three to six months, while the Human Milk Banking Association of North America says that it can be safely stored for upwards of a year, though it counsels that around three months is ideal.

How long is thawed breast milk good for CDC?

within 24 hours
Inform families if any of the unused milk being sent home was thawed that day in the ECE setting so they know to keep it cold and use it within 24 hours. Never refreeze thawed milk. Store frozen milk in the freezer until needed. Return unused frozen milk to families within 6 months from the date it was expressed.

Does frozen breastmilk expire?

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. Moving frozen breast milk between freezer locations should be done quickly to ensure that the milk stays frozen.

How long does frozen milk last after thawed?

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.

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 can you tell if frozen breast milk has gone bad?

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.

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.