How long is frozen breast milk good for in the freezer?

Understanding the Shelf Life of Frozen Breast Milk
When it comes to storing breast milk, understanding how long it remains safe and nutritious in the freezer is crucial for breastfeeding mothers. The guidelines for frozen breast milk storage are designed to ensure that both the quality and safety of the milk are maintained for as long as possible.
Optimal Storage Duration
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, breast milk can be safely stored in a deep freezer at a temperature of 0 degrees Fahrenheit (-18 degrees Celsius) or below for three to six months. This timeframe is ideal for preserving the milk’s nutritional and immunological properties, which are vital for a baby’s development.
For mothers who may not have access to a deep freezer, standard freezer compartments in refrigerators can still be used, but the recommended storage duration is shorter. In these cases, breast milk is best used within three to four months.
Factors Affecting Quality
While breast milk can remain safe for several months, it’s important to note that the quality may diminish over time. Research indicates that certain bioactive components, such as lactoferrin, can decrease in effectiveness after being frozen for extended periods. Some mothers have reported changes in taste or smell, describing the milk as soapy or rancid after being frozen for three months.
Thawing and Usage Guidelines
Once frozen breast milk is thawed, it must be used within a specific timeframe to ensure safety. If thawed in the refrigerator, it should be consumed within 24 hours. If the milk has been warmed, it should be used within two hours. These guidelines help prevent the growth of bacteria and ensure that the milk remains safe for the baby.
Conclusion
In summary, frozen breast milk can be stored safely for three to six months in a deep freezer, with a shorter duration recommended for standard freezer compartments. While the milk remains safe to consume within this period, mothers should be mindful of potential changes in quality and adhere to strict thawing and usage guidelines to ensure their baby’s health and safety.

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.

What is the lifespan of thawed breast milk?

If you thaw breast milk in the refrigerator, use it within 24 hours. Start counting the 24 hours when the breast milk is completely thawed, not from the time when you took it out of the freezer. Once breast milk is brought to room temperature or warmed, use it within 2 hours.

What if baby drinks bad breast milk?

If your baby has had spoiled breast milk, they’ll likely let you know. They may throw up, or have an upset stomach, diarrhea or fever. It’s important to call your pediatrician if you think your baby may be sick from having spoiled breast milk.

What happens if a baby drank spoiled breast milk?

This bacteria can cause digestive tract infections such as diarrhea. If a baby has diarrhea, he will become more fussy and become dehydrated. Because, a lot of fluid comes out of his body. If something like this happens, immediately take it to the doctor so the baby can get help.

How long does frozen milk last once defrosted?

within 2 days
When you want to use your frozen milk, simply transfer from the freezer to the fridge and leave to fully thaw overnight. Always use your defrosted milk within 2 days of defrosting. Don’t be tempted to speed up the defrosting process by leaving it at room temperature as this could encourage harmful bacterial to grow.

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.

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.

How long can you keep frozen breast milk in the freezer?

The Academy recommends storing breast milk for three to six months if frozen in a deep freezer at 0 degrees Fahrenheit (-18 degrees Celsius) or below. The Human Milk Banking Association of North America says milk can be stored under such conditions for up to a year, although less than three months is preferred.

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.

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.