One of the best things about breast milk feeding is its flexibility in handling and storage. Breast milk can be collected, refrigerated or frozen and used later as desired! This allows us so much freedom… to share lunch with a friend, to have a relaxing massage, to spend a few hours shopping, etc., etc.!
All mothers should have information about the storage and handling of breast milk. This is most easily described in a table format, so here it is:
Breast Milk | Room Temperature | Refrigerator at ≤ 39 degrees | Refrigerator Freezer | Deep Freezer |
Fresh | Use within 4-6 hours | Use within 3-7 days | Use within 6 months | Use within 12 months |
Frozen then thawed in refrigerator | Use within 4 hours | Use within 24 hours | Do not refreeze | Do not refreeze |
Frozen then thawed in a warm water bath | Use right away | Use within 4 hours | Do not refreeze | Do not refreeze |
Although the immunological composition of cold-stored milk will have been altered, it is still the next best thing to fresh breast milk for your baby. In preparing bottles for feeding, many of us assume that milk must be warmed. However, many babies actually enjoy chilled milk straight from the fridge! Some prefer room temperature. Others seem to like it slightly warmed. To warm chilled milk, place the unopened container in a warm water bath (cup or bowl) for a few minutes. Warning: Because babies can be badly injured, please remember never to use a microwave to heat baby’s milk.
I have discussed how to collect breast milk (by hand and by pump) in a previous blog, so please select keywords “milk expression” or “collection” for more information. BTW, I will be chatting very soon about introducing bottles to babies. I hope this discussion on milk storage was helpful. Please feel free to post any questions your may have by clicking on the comment link. Happy milk storage!
I've been told to use or freeze fresh refrigerated milk within 24-48 hrs by several midwives. Why is the discrepancy with what you're advising so vast?
ReplyDeleteDear Anonymous,
ReplyDeleteThanks for your question. Milk storage guidelines can be very confusing! Many studies have been conducted regarding safe handling and storage of human milk. Recommendations have varied from study to study. However, the general consensus is that freshly expressed milk kept at or below 39 degrees Fahrenheit (as in a refrigerator) can be stored safely for between 3-7 days. Freshly expressed milk kept at 59 degrees Fahrenheit (as in a cooler with ice packs) can be stored safely for 24 hrs. Milk that has been frozen then thawed may be kept safely in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Hope this helps!
Diana
Hey Diana, I was just wondering when I store my milk in the fridge it seems to seperate? Is this normal? The coloring seems a little off too, almost looks grey? Also any tips on balancing breast milk ans solids for an older baby? I love the blog so much, Thanks for all the helpfull information.
ReplyDeleteHi Nicole!
ReplyDeleteGreat questions! When our milk sits for a time it “separates”. The creamy portion (rich in fats and calories) rises to the top while the more watery whey fraction settles below. The whey, which contains proteins, immunoglobulins and sugars, is cloudy in appearance. A container of separated milk looks very weird! Unless a mom knows about milk separation, she might assume her milk has gone “bad”. Not so! Simply agitate the container and the milk fractions mix together again. Good as gold! As for balancing solids and breast milk feedings, the rule of thumb is to offer breastmilk before solids. Remember that your milk is 100% of what your baby needs! Good stuff!