Olivia Carter
Expressed breast milk is a valuable resource for mothers who want to ensure that their babies receive the benefits of breast milk even when they are not able to breastfeed directly. It provides all the necessary nutrients and antibodies that help protect babies from infections and diseases. However, it is important for mothers to know how long expressed breast milk can be safely stored in the refrigerator.
According to the guidelines provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), expressed breast milk can be safely stored in the refrigerator for up to four days. This means that mothers can pump and store breast milk in the refrigerator for later use, whether it is for feeding their babies or for other purposes like returning to work or going out for a few hours.
It is important to note that the four-day guideline is for freshly expressed breast milk. If you are planning to use the stored breast milk beyond four days, it is recommended to freeze it instead to preserve its quality and safety. Freezing breast milk can extend its shelf life for up to six months, depending on the type of freezer used.
When storing expressed breast milk in the refrigerator, it is crucial to follow proper hygiene and storage practices. Make sure to wash your hands before expressing milk and use clean storage containers. Label each container with the date and time of expression, and always refrigerate the milk as soon as possible after expressing it. Additionally, keep the milk in the back of the refrigerator, where the temperature is the most constant.
What Determines the Shelf Life of Expressed Breast Milk in the Refrigerator?
When it comes to storing expressed breast milk, it is important to understand the factors that determine its shelf life in the refrigerator. The shelf life refers to the amount of time that the milk can be safely stored without compromising its nutritional value and safety for the baby.
There are several key factors that can influence the shelf life of expressed breast milk:
| Temperature: | The temperature of the refrigerator plays a crucial role in determining the shelf life of expressed breast milk. It is recommended to store the milk at a temperature of 4°C (39°F) or below, as this helps to inhibit the growth of bacteria. |
| Storage container: | The type of container used for storing expressed breast milk can also affect its shelf life. It is recommended to use clean glass or BPA-free plastic containers specifically designed for storing breast milk. These containers should be tightly sealed to prevent contamination. |
| Quality of expressed milk: | The freshness and quality of the expressed breast milk can impact its shelf life. It is important to express the milk correctly and ensure that it is free from any impurities or additives. Proper hygiene and clean pumping equipment are crucial to maintain the quality of the milk. |
| Duration of storage: | The length of time that the expressed breast milk is stored in the refrigerator can affect its shelf life. It is generally recommended to use refrigerated breast milk within 4-5 days. However, if the milk has been frozen and then thawed, it should be used within 24 hours. |
| Handling and transportation: | The way the expressed breast milk is handled and transported can also impact its shelf life. It should be stored in a clean environment, and proper precautions should be taken to prevent any contamination from occurring during transportation. |
By considering these factors and following proper storage guidelines, mothers can ensure that their expressed breast milk remains safe and nutritious for their baby.
Factors That Affect How Long Expressed Breast Milk Lasts in the Refrigerator
The duration for which expressed breast milk can last in the refrigerator can vary depending on several factors. It is important to understand these factors to ensure the safety and quality of the breast milk for your baby.
1. Temperature: The temperature of the refrigerator plays a crucial role in determining the shelf life of expressed breast milk. A refrigerator should be set at a temperature of 4°C (39°F) or below to maintain the freshness and quality of the milk.
2. Storage container: The type of storage container used can affect how long the expressed breast milk will last. It is recommended to use containers specifically designed for breast milk storage, such as BPA-free plastic bottles or glass containers with tight-fitting lids. These containers help to preserve the nutrients and prevent contamination.
3. Cleanliness: Proper hygiene is essential when handling and storing breast milk. Ensure that all the storage containers, pump parts, and hands are thoroughly washed with warm water and mild soap before expressing and storing milk. This helps to prevent bacterial growth and maintain the freshness of the milk.
4. Freshness of milk: The duration for which expressed breast milk can last in the refrigerator also depends on the freshness of the milk when it was expressed. Freshly expressed milk can be stored for up to 4-8 days in the refrigerator.
5. Contamination: Avoid exposing the expressed breast milk to any contaminants during expression or storage. Make sure the pump, storage containers, and hands are clean and that the milk is not stored near raw meat, eggs, or other potentially contaminated foods.
6. Thawing and rewarming: The process of thawing and rewarming breast milk can affect its shelf life. Once thawed, breast milk should be used within 24 hours and not refrozen. Avoid using a microwave to thaw or warm breast milk, as it can create hot spots and destroy important nutrients.
7. Infant’s health: If your baby is premature or has a weakened immune system, it is important to follow the guidelines provided by your healthcare professional for storing and using expressed breast milk.
By considering these factors and following proper storage guidelines, you can ensure that the expressed breast milk remains safe and fresh for your baby’s consumption.
Storage Guidelines for Keeping Expressed Breast Milk Fresh
Proper storage of expressed breast milk is essential to maintain its freshness and safety for your baby. Here are some guidelines to follow:
- Store breast milk in clean, BPA-free containers with tight-fitting lids.
- Label each container with the date and time of expressing to ensure proper rotation.
- Place the containers at the back of the refrigerator where the temperature is the coldest.
- Keep breast milk away from the refrigerator door as it is subjected to temperature changes each time the door is opened.
- Do not store breast milk in the door compartments as they are not as cold as the main part of the refrigerator.
- For optimal freshness, use refrigerated breast milk within 4-8 days.
It’s important to note that breast milk can be safely stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, but using it within 4-8 days is recommended to ensure its nutrition and quality.
If you do not plan to use the expressed breast milk within 4-8 days, you can consider freezing it. Freezing breast milk allows it to be stored for a longer period without compromising its nutritional value. Check our article “How Long Does Expressed Breast Milk Last In The Freezer” for storage guidelines on frozen breast milk.
Remember to always check the temperature of the refrigerator and ensure it is set between 32°F (0°C) and 39°F (4°C). Regularly clean the refrigerator to maintain a hygienic storage environment for your breast milk.
How to Tell If Expressed Breast Milk Has Gone Bad
Knowing how to tell if expressed breast milk has gone bad is essential for the health and safety of your baby. While refrigerated breast milk can typically last for up to 4-8 days, it can go bad before that if certain conditions are not met or if it is stored improperly.
Here are some signs to look out for to determine if your expressed breast milk has gone bad:
1. Smell: Fresh breast milk usually has a slightly sweet or soapy smell. If you notice a sour or unpleasant odor, it may be a sign that the milk has spoiled.
2. Color: Fresh breast milk is typically white or slightly bluish. If you notice any unusual color changes, such as yellow or brown, it may indicate that the milk is no longer good.
3. Texture: Expressed breast milk should have a smooth and creamy consistency. If you see clumps, lumps, or a separation of the fat layer, it may be an indication that the milk has started to spoil.
4. Taste: While babies have different preferences, fresh breast milk generally has a pleasant and slightly sweet taste. If you notice a rancid or off taste, it is best to discard the milk.
5. Storage guidelines: If you have followed proper storage guidelines and your breast milk still does not seem right, it is advisable to err on the side of caution and discard it.
Remember, when in doubt, it is always better to throw away expressed breast milk that you suspect has gone bad. Keeping your baby safe and healthy is of utmost importance.
Tips for Properly Storing Expressed Breast Milk in the Refrigerator
1. Use clean storage containers: Before expressing breast milk, make sure to wash your hands thoroughly and use clean storage containers. Sterilize the containers by boiling them in water for at least 5 minutes and air-drying them.
2. Label and date: Always label the storage containers with the date and time you expressed the milk. This will help you keep track of the freshness and ensure you use the oldest milk first.
3. Store milk immediately: After expressing breast milk, store it in the refrigerator as soon as possible. Ideally, this should be done within 4 hours of expressing the milk.
4. Keep milk in the back of the refrigerator: Place the breast milk containers towards the back of the refrigerator where the temperature is the coldest. This will help maintain the freshness of the milk.
5. Don’t store milk in the door: Avoid storing breast milk in the refrigerator door as the temperature fluctuates whenever the door is opened. This can affect the quality of the milk.
6. Maintain a consistent temperature: Make sure your refrigerator is set to maintain a temperature between 32-39°F (0-4°C) to keep the expressed breast milk fresh.
7. Use within 4 days: Expressed breast milk can be safely stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It is important to use the oldest milk first and discard any milk that has exceeded this time frame.
8. Avoid shaking the milk: Instead of shaking the milk, gently swirl the container to combine the layers of cream and milk. This will help preserve the nutrients in the milk.
9. Thaw milk in the refrigerator: When thawing frozen breast milk, transfer it from the freezer to the refrigerator and allow it to thaw overnight. This will ensure a gradual thawing process and maintain the quality of the milk.
10. Test the milk before feeding: Before feeding your baby with expressed breast milk, give it a good sniff. If it smells sour or off, discard it. Additionally, check for any changes in the color or texture of the milk, as these can be indicators of spoilage.
By following these tips, you can properly store expressed breast milk in the refrigerator and ensure that your baby receives safe and nutritious milk. Remember to always consult a healthcare professional for specific guidelines and recommendations.
FAQ
How long does expressed breast milk last in the refrigerator?
Expressed breast milk can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It’s important to label the milk with the date it was expressed to ensure it is used within the appropriate time frame.
Can I mix freshly pumped breast milk with refrigerated breast milk?
Yes, you can mix freshly pumped breast milk with refrigerated breast milk. However, it’s important to cool the freshly pumped milk before adding it to the refrigerated milk to maintain the quality and freshness. Additionally, make sure to mix milk that is at the same temperature.
