Why do people store breast milk in the freezer?

The Importance of Freezing Breast Milk
For many new parents, the decision to store breast milk in the freezer is a practical and essential part of managing their breastfeeding journey. This practice not only ensures that infants receive the nutritional benefits of breast milk but also provides flexibility for caregivers.
Nutritional Value and Safety
Breast milk is renowned for its rich nutritional profile, containing essential antibodies, vitamins, and fats that support an infant’s growth and immune system. However, fresh breast milk has a limited shelf life. According to guidelines from health organizations, while breast milk can be safely stored in the refrigerator for a few days, freezing it significantly extends its usability. When properly frozen, breast milk can last for up to six months, and sometimes even longer, without losing its nutritional quality. This makes freezing an ideal option for parents who may need to store milk for future feedings, especially if they are returning to work or need to be away from their baby for extended periods.
Convenience and Flexibility
Freezing breast milk allows parents to create a stockpile that can be used as needed. This is particularly beneficial for mothers who may experience fluctuations in milk supply or those who want to ensure that their baby has access to breast milk even when they are not available to nurse. By having a supply of frozen milk, caregivers can easily thaw and prepare bottles for feedings, providing peace of mind and convenience.
Guidelines for Safe Storage
To maximize the safety and quality of stored breast milk, it is crucial to follow proper storage guidelines. Milk should be expressed into clean, sterilized containers specifically designed for breast milk storage, such as BPA-free plastic bags or glass containers. It is also important to label each container with the date it was expressed, ensuring that older milk is used first. When thawing frozen milk, it is recommended to do so in the refrigerator or by placing the container in warm water, avoiding the use of a microwave, which can create hot spots and destroy some of the milk’s beneficial properties.
Conclusion
In summary, freezing breast milk is a vital practice for many breastfeeding parents, offering a way to preserve the milk’s nutritional benefits while providing flexibility in feeding schedules. By adhering to safe storage practices, parents can ensure that their infants receive the best possible nutrition, even when they are not physically present to breastfeed. This thoughtful approach to milk storage not only supports the health of the baby but also empowers parents to manage their breastfeeding experience effectively.

What are the disadvantages of freezing breast milk?

Deep freezer.
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.

Is frozen breastmilk still beneficial?

Previously frozen breast milk has similar nutrient and antibody content to fresh milk. It does lose a small amount of those qualities but can still provide a baby with the nutrition it needs.

How long should you keep breastmilk in the freezer?

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 point of freezing breastmilk?

A breastmilk freezer stash serves an obvious purpose if you’re planning to return to work soon. However, a stash can be useful for any mom, including stay-at-home moms. Why? A freezer stash provides you with freedom if you want a night out on the town or if an unexpected emergency calls you away from your little one.

How much breastmilk should I stockpile?

How much milk should you save. As a working parent, a good goal for your milk stash is 3-5 days (or 36 to 80 ounces) of milk in the freezer before starting back to work, although the amount ultimately depends on how long you’ll be away from your little one each day.

Is frozen breast milk healthier than formula?

Breast milk is better for your baby than formula – but freshly expressed breast milk is preferable to refrigerated, and refrigerated is better than frozen.

Is frozen breastmilk better than formula?

Breast milk is better for your baby than formula – but freshly expressed breast milk is preferable to refrigerated, and refrigerated is better than frozen.

Is it better to store breast milk in the fridge or freezer?

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, breastmilk can be stored 6-8 hours at room temperature (up to 77 degrees), 8 days in the refrigerator (39 degrees or colder), 6-9 months in a freezer (0 degrees or colder), and 12 months in a deep freezer (-4 degrees or colder).

Does freezing breast milk destroy antibodies?

Remember to label the breast milk with the date that you pumped it. Thaw milk in the refrigerator or in warm water just before feeding. Thawed milk must be used within 24 hours. Note: freezing breastmilk destroys some of its antibodies.

Can babies drink cold breast milk?

You can feed expressed milk straight from the fridge if your baby is happy to drink it cold. Or you can warm the milk to body temperature by putting the bottle in a jug of warm water or holding it under running warm water. Do not use a microwave to heat up or defrost breast milk.