Who guidelines for breast milk storage?

Understanding WHO Guidelines for Breast Milk Storage
Breastfeeding is widely recognized for its numerous health benefits for both infants and mothers. However, when it comes to expressing and storing breast milk, proper guidelines are essential to ensure the milk remains safe and nutritious. The World Health Organization (WHO) provides comprehensive recommendations that align closely with those from other health authorities, such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Key Storage Guidelines
Temperature Control is Crucial
Breast milk should be stored at appropriate temperatures to maintain its quality. According to the CDC, freshly expressed breast milk can be safely left at room temperature (up to 25°C or 77°F) for about four hours. If the milk will not be used within this timeframe, it should be refrigerated. In a refrigerator, breast milk can be stored for up to four days. For longer storage, freezing is recommended, where breast milk can last up to 12 months, although using it within six months is ideal for optimal quality .
Containers Matter
The choice of storage containers is also critical. Breast milk should be stored in clean, BPA-free plastic or glass containers with tight-fitting lids. Special breast milk storage bags are also available and can be a convenient option. It is important to label containers with the date and time of expression to keep track of freshness.
Thawing and Using Stored Milk
When it comes to thawing frozen breast milk, the WHO guidelines suggest doing so in the refrigerator or by placing the container under warm running water. It is important to never refreeze thawed breast milk, as this can compromise its safety and nutritional value. Once thawed, breast milk should be used within 24 hours if kept in the refrigerator.
Best Practices for Safety
To maximize the safety and quality of stored breast milk, mothers are encouraged to follow these best practices:
– Avoid leaving breast milk out for extended periods, especially in warmer climates, where bacteria can grow more rapidly.
– Do not microwave breast milk, as this can create hot spots that may burn the baby and can also degrade some of the milk’s beneficial properties.
– Always wash hands before expressing or handling breast milk to prevent contamination.
Conclusion
Following the WHO guidelines for breast milk storage is vital for ensuring that expressed milk retains its nutritional and immunological benefits. By adhering to recommended storage times, using appropriate containers, and practicing safe handling techniques, mothers can provide their infants with the best possible nutrition, even when breastfeeding directly is not an option. These guidelines not only support the health of infants but also empower mothers to manage their breastfeeding journey effectively.

What are the FDA guidelines for breast milk?

How to Store Breast Milk

Type of Breast Milk	Countertop 77°F (25°C) or colder (room temperature)
Freshly expressed or pumped	Up to 4 hours
Thawed, previously frozen	1–2 hours
Leftover from a feeding(baby did not finish the bottle)	Once it has been offered to the infant, use leftovers within 2 hours or discard leftovers

May 16, 2022

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).

Can I freeze breast milk after 4 days in the fridge?

Freshly expressed breast milk can be stored in an insulated cooler with ice packs for up to one day. Refrigerator. Freshly expressed breast milk can be stored in the back of the refrigerator for up to four days in clean conditions. However, it’s optimal to use or freeze the milk within three days.

What are the CDC guidelines for breastfeeding?

Breastfeeding. The U.S. Dietary Guidelines for Americans [PDF-30.6MB] recommend that infants be exclusively breastfed for about the first 6 months, and then continuing breastfeeding while introducing appropriate complementary foods until your child is 12 months old or older.

What are the rules for breast milk storage?

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 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.

Can I pump into the same bottle within 4 hours?

Freshly expressed breast milk can be kept at room temperature for up to six hours. However, it’s optimal to use or properly store the breast milk within four hours, especially if the room is warm. Insulated cooler. Freshly expressed breast milk can be stored in an insulated cooler with ice packs for up to one day.

What is the 6 6 6 rule for breastmilk?

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.

WHO guidelines on breast milk?

WHO and UNICEF recommend that children initiate breastfeeding within the first hour of birth and be exclusively breastfed for the first 6 months of life – meaning no other foods or liquids are provided, including water. Infants should be breastfed on demand – that is as often as the child wants, day and night.

What is the CDC recommendation for breastmilk?

Exclusive breastfeeding for about the first six months is recommended. The Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommends continued breastfeeding while introducing appropriate complementary foods until children are 12 months old or older.