How Long to Keep Fresh Breast Milk: A Comprehensive Guide
Breast milk is a vital source of nutrition for infants, providing them with essential nutrients and antibodies that help protect them from infections. However, knowing how long to keep fresh breast milk is crucial to ensure its safety and quality. This article will discuss the recommended storage times for fresh breast milk, as well as factors that can affect its shelf life.
Immediate Storage
When you express breast milk, it is important to store it properly to maintain its quality. Freshly expressed breast milk should be kept in the refrigerator within 4 hours of pumping. If you are unable to store the milk within this timeframe, you can keep it at room temperature for up to 6 hours. However, it is best to store the milk in the refrigerator as soon as possible to extend its shelf life.
Refrigerator Storage
Once you have stored the breast milk in the refrigerator, it can be kept for different durations depending on the temperature. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), fresh breast milk can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days at temperatures between 35°F to 40°F (1.7°C to 4.4°C). If you have a refrigerator with a colder setting, you can store the milk for up to 7 days.
Freezer Storage
Freezing breast milk is an excellent way to extend its shelf life. When frozen, breast milk can last for an extended period. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), fresh breast milk can be stored in the freezer for up to 6 months if it is frozen at or below 0°F (-18°C). If you have a deep freezer, the milk can last for up to 12 months.
Thawing and Reuse
When you need to use the frozen breast milk, it is important to thaw it properly. The AAP recommends thawing breast milk in the refrigerator overnight or by placing the sealed bag in a container of warm water. Do not use a microwave to thaw breast milk, as it can create hot spots that may destroy the milk’s nutrients and bacteria. Once thawed, the breast milk should be used within 24 hours.
Factors Affecting Shelf Life
Several factors can affect the shelf life of breast milk. These include:
– The cleanliness of the storage containers: Ensure that the containers are clean and sterile before storing the milk.
– The temperature of the storage environment: Keep the milk away from extreme temperatures and sunlight.
– The presence of bacteria: Avoid contamination by using a clean pump and sterilizing all equipment.
In conclusion, knowing how long to keep fresh breast milk is essential for maintaining its safety and quality. By following the recommended storage times and considering the factors that can affect the shelf life, you can ensure that your baby receives the best possible nutrition from breast milk.
