What can I do with expired breast milk?

Exploring the Uses of Expired Breast Milk
Breast milk, often referred to as “liquid gold,” is celebrated for its nutritional benefits for infants. However, what happens when this precious resource reaches its expiration date? Instead of discarding expired breast milk, there are several innovative and practical uses that can help you make the most of it.
Topical Applications
One of the most popular uses for expired breast milk is in skincare. Due to its natural composition, breast milk can be transformed into various topical products. For instance, it can be used to create lotion and soap. The high fat and sugar content in breast milk makes it an excellent base for creamy soaps that can nourish and hydrate the skin . Additionally, breast milk has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, making it beneficial for treating minor skin irritations, rashes, and even sunburns.
Culinary Uses
Expired breast milk can also find a place in the kitchen. While it’s not suitable for direct consumption after it has expired, it can be incorporated into recipes. For example, it can be used in baking, adding moisture and nutrition to pancakes, scones, or even cereal. This creative approach not only reduces waste but also allows you to utilize the nutritional benefits of breast milk in a different form.
Donation and Sharing
If the breast milk is still within a reasonable timeframe of expiration and has been stored properly, consider donating it. Many milk banks accept donations of fresh breast milk, which is then pasteurized and provided to infants in need, particularly those whose mothers cannot produce enough milk. This option not only helps other families but also ensures that your milk is put to good use.
Practical Tips for Storage
To minimize the chances of breast milk expiring, it’s advisable to store it in smaller portions. This way, you can thaw only what you need, reducing waste and ensuring that the milk is consumed while still fresh. If you find yourself with expired milk, remember that the longer it has been frozen, the less potent its beneficial properties will be.
Conclusion
In summary, expired breast milk doesn’t have to go to waste. From skincare products to culinary uses and even donation opportunities, there are numerous ways to repurpose this valuable resource. By thinking creatively, you can ensure that your breast milk continues to provide benefits long after its initial intended use.

Can I put breastmilk in plants?

If you have a green thumb and like growing plants and veggies, you can try making fertilizer with your leftover breast milk. The proteins from breast milk help make the soil nitrogen-rich, making it a great food for your garden. Calcium from breast milk can also serve as an added nutrient boost for your soil too.

Can you do anything with expired milk?

Spoiled milk can replace buttermilk or sour cream in baked goods. It can also be used to tenderize meats or added to soups, casseroles, or salad dressings. You can likewise use it in certain cosmetic applications to soften your skin.

What can I do with unused baby milk?

Any unused formula should be thrown away if it has been kept at room temperature for over 2 hours.

How to dispose of expired breast milk?

Old or expired baby food or formula must be disposed of in your general household waste, as it cannot be used safely, milk goes down the drain and you will have to re-cycle the glass bottle.

Can you throw away expired milk?

Seal and Trash: Place expired milk in a sealed, leak-proof container or bag and dispose of it in the trash to prevent contamination.

Is breast milk good for plants?

The proteins from breast milk help make the soil nitrogen-rich, making it a great food for your garden. Calcium from breast milk can also serve as an added nutrient boost for your soil too. To make fertilizer from leftover breast milk, follow the 1:1:4 ratio.

What should I do with unused breast milk?

Note: If your stash isn’t expired like mine, please consider donating any and all leftover milk to the HMBANA, which is a network of non-profit milk banks that focus on serving “vulnerable preterm and otherwise fragile infants who need human milk as medicine.”

What can breast milk be used for in adults?

You can also use breast milk like an antibiotic ointment on superficial scrapes—although you should never apply it to open wounds or deep cuts. Breast milk can also reduce itchiness from bug bites or poison ivy. Some people even gargle with breast milk to help manage sore throat pain!

What can I do with breast milk that was left out?

It’s best to chill, refrigerate, or freeze breast milk immediately after it’s expressed. If expressed milk is left out unrefrigerated, but it’s in a clean, covered container, it can sit at room temperature for between four and six hours. Milk that has been left out for longer should be thrown away.

Can I do anything with expired breast milk?

If the milk is expired, milk baths, soaps, salves, face creams, etc. are all great ways to not waste that liquid gold!