How long will breastmilk last in a deep freezer?

The Longevity of Breast Milk in a Deep Freezer
Breastfeeding mothers often find themselves navigating the complexities of milk storage, especially when it comes to freezing expressed breast milk. Understanding how long breast milk can last in a deep freezer is crucial for ensuring both the safety and nutritional quality of the milk for their infants.
Storage Duration in a Deep Freezer
According to health guidelines, breast milk can be stored in a deep freezer at a temperature of 0°F (-18°C) or below for up to 12 months. This duration is applicable regardless of the type of freezer used, as long as the temperature remains consistently at or below the freezing point. However, while the maximum storage time is a year, many experts recommend using the milk within three to six months for optimal quality.
Factors Influencing Quality
The quality of frozen breast milk can be influenced by several factors, including the method of storage and the initial quality of the milk before freezing. For instance, milk that is freshly expressed and promptly frozen tends to retain more of its beneficial properties compared to milk that has been stored for longer periods. While milk frozen for several months is still safe for consumption, it may not have the same nutritional profile as fresher milk.
Thawing and Usage Guidelines
Once thawed, breast milk 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 has completely thawed, not from the moment it is removed from the freezer. This careful attention to thawing and usage helps prevent any potential bacterial growth that could occur if the milk is left out too long.
Conclusion
In summary, mothers can confidently store breast milk in a deep freezer for up to 12 months, although for the best quality, using it within three to six months is advisable. By adhering to proper storage and thawing guidelines, breastfeeding mothers can ensure that their infants receive safe and nutritious milk, even when it has been frozen for an extended period.

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 can breast milk stay in the deep 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.

Is breast milk still good after 2 years?

There are many professional associations that recommend breastfeeding beyond 1 year, but to date there is no evidence that extended breastfeeding is harmful in any way. There is currently no known age when breastmilk is considered to be nutritionally insignificant for a child.

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.

What happens if a baby drinks bad breastmilk?

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 is frozen breast milk good for?

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.

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 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 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 long can I keep breast milk 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.