How Long Does Freshly Expressed Breast Milk Last?
Breast milk is a natural and nutritious food for infants, providing them with essential nutrients and antibodies to support their growth and development. Many mothers choose to express their breast milk to store it for future use, whether it’s for their baby’s next feeding or for emergencies. However, it’s important to understand how long freshly expressed breast milk can be stored safely. In this article, we will discuss the shelf life of freshly expressed breast milk and how to keep it fresh.
Freshly expressed breast milk can be stored for varying lengths of time, depending on the storage conditions. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), here are the guidelines for storing breast milk:
1. At room temperature (77°F or 25°C): Freshly expressed breast milk can be stored for up to 4 hours. It’s essential to keep the milk covered and away from direct sunlight to maintain its quality.
2. In the refrigerator: Breast milk can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To preserve its freshness, it’s best to store it in the back of the fridge where the temperature is more stable.
3. In the freezer: Freezing breast milk extends its shelf life significantly. When stored at 0°F or below, breast milk can last for up to 6 months in the freezer. For long-term storage, it’s recommended to freeze the milk in small, manageable portions, as this makes it easier to thaw and use.
It’s important to note that these guidelines are for freshly expressed breast milk that has been properly stored. If the milk has been exposed to warm temperatures or has been stored for longer than the recommended times, it’s best to discard it to avoid any potential health risks for the baby.
To ensure the safety and quality of breast milk, here are some additional tips:
– Label the milk with the date of expression and the expiration date based on the storage guidelines.
– Use clean, sterile containers for storing breast milk. Glass bottles or plastic bags specifically designed for breast milk storage are ideal.
– Avoid adding water or other liquids to the breast milk, as this can compromise its quality and safety.
– When thawing breast milk, do so in the refrigerator or by placing the sealed container in a pot of warm water. Avoid microwaving, as this can create hot spots and destroy the milk’s nutrients.
In conclusion, freshly expressed breast milk can be stored for varying lengths of time, depending on the storage conditions. By following the guidelines and tips mentioned in this article, mothers can ensure that their breast milk remains safe and nutritious for their little ones. Always remember to discard any milk that has been stored for longer than the recommended times or has been exposed to warm temperatures.
