How long will breast milk last in freezer?

How Long Will Breast Milk Last in the Freezer?
Breast milk is a precious resource for nursing mothers, and understanding how to store it properly is crucial for ensuring its safety and nutritional quality. When it comes to freezing breast milk, the guidelines are clear and designed to help parents make the most of this vital nourishment.
Storage Duration in the Freezer
Breast milk can be stored in a freezer for up to 12 months as long as the temperature remains at 0°F (-18°C) or below. This applies to both standard kitchen freezers and deep freezers, with the latter often maintaining even colder temperatures, which can help preserve the milk’s quality for longer periods. However, for optimal quality, it is recommended to use the frozen milk within 6 months.
Thawing and Usage Guidelines
Once breast milk has been frozen, it must be thawed properly before use. Thawing can be done in the refrigerator, which typically takes about 24 hours. Importantly, once thawed, breast milk should be used within 24 hours if it was thawed in the refrigerator. If the milk has been warmed, it should be consumed within two hours . After this time frame, any leftover milk should be discarded to ensure the baby’s safety.
Quality Considerations
While freezing breast milk is an effective way to extend its shelf life, it’s worth noting that some bioactive components may diminish over time. For instance, studies have shown that levels of lactoferrin, an important protein in breast milk, can significantly decrease after three months of freezing. Additionally, some mothers report changes in taste or smell, describing the milk as soapy or rancid after being frozen.
Best Practices for Freezing
To maximize the quality and safety of frozen breast milk, mothers should follow a few best practices:
– Use clean, BPA-free containers specifically designed for breast milk storage.
– Leave some space at the top of the container to allow for expansion as the milk freezes.
– Label containers with the date of expression to keep track of storage times.
In conclusion, freezing breast milk is a practical solution for many nursing mothers, allowing them to store this vital resource for future use. By adhering to recommended storage times and thawing guidelines, parents can ensure that their babies receive the best possible nutrition, even when they are not able to breastfeed directly.

Can I use 2 year old frozen breastmilk?

Breast milk can be stored at 0° F or colder for up to 12 months, although using it within 6 months is best.

What to do with frozen breast milk after 6 months?

If freezing/storing breastmilk in a deep freezer that can maintain a temperature at or below zero degrees Fahrenheit, it may be stored for 6-12 months. Once frozen milk has been thawed, it must be used within 24 hours or discarded.

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.

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 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.

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).

How long is frozen breast milk actually good for?

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.

Can I save a half-drank bottle of breastmilk?

Any remaining breast milk left in a bottle after your baby is finished with a feeding should be used within 2 hours—or, if quickly refrigerated, used for the next feeding. You can always thaw an extra container if needed.

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.

Can a baby finish a breast milk bottle later?

If your baby did not finish the bottle, use the leftover milk within 2 hours after the baby is finished feeding. After 2 hours, leftover breast milk should be discarded.