How long is fresh expressed breast milk good for?
Breast milk is a highly nutritious and beneficial food for infants. Many mothers choose to express their breast milk to store it for their baby’s use when they are not able to breastfeed directly. However, it is important to understand how long fresh expressed breast milk remains safe and nutritious for the baby. In this article, we will discuss the shelf life of fresh expressed breast milk and provide guidelines for storing and using it safely.
Shelf Life of Fresh Expressed Breast Milk
Freshly expressed breast milk can be stored in the refrigerator or freezer for varying lengths of time. The shelf life depends on several factors, including the temperature of storage and the method of storage. Here are some general guidelines:
– At room temperature (77°F or 25°C), fresh expressed breast milk can be kept for up to 4 hours.
– In the refrigerator (39°F or 4°C), breast milk can be stored for up to 72 hours.
– In the freezer, breast milk can last for longer periods, with the following durations:
– In a refrigerator-freezer compartment, breast milk can remain good for up to 2 weeks.
– In a freezer set at 0°F or below, breast milk can be stored for up to 6 months.
– In a deep freezer set at 0°F or below, breast milk can be kept for up to 6-12 months.
Storing Fresh Expressed Breast Milk Safely
To ensure the safety and quality of fresh expressed breast milk, it is essential to follow proper storage guidelines:
1. Wash your hands thoroughly before expressing and storing breast milk.
2. Use a clean, sterile container to express the milk. Breast milk can be stored in glass or BPA-free plastic containers.
3. Label each container with the date and time of expression.
4. Keep the milk refrigerated or frozen immediately after expression to maintain its quality.
5. Do not freeze breast milk in bags; use containers with tight-fitting lids to prevent leaks and contamination.
6. Avoid refreezing thawed breast milk, as it may lose some of its nutritional value.
7. Thaw frozen breast milk in the refrigerator, using a cold water bath, or by placing the container in a pot of warm water. Avoid microwaving or rapid thawing, as it can destroy some of the milk’s beneficial properties.
Using Fresh Expressed Breast Milk
When it’s time to use the stored breast milk, follow these steps:
1. Wash your hands thoroughly before handling the milk.
2. Check the expiration date on the container and discard any milk that has been stored beyond its recommended shelf life.
3. Thaw frozen breast milk gradually in the refrigerator, using a cold water bath, or by placing the container in a pot of warm water.
4. Stir the milk to ensure that any fat that may have separated is evenly distributed.
5. Use the thawed milk within 24 hours, either by feeding it to the baby or by adding it to previously thawed milk to increase the volume.
6. Do not return any unused milk to the refrigerator or freezer, as it may contaminate the remaining milk.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your fresh expressed breast milk remains safe and nutritious for your baby, providing the best possible nutrition and comfort during feeding times.
