Breast milk is a valuable source of nutrition for infants, offering a range of health benefits that support their growth and immune system. Proper storage of breast milk is crucial to maintaining its quality and ensuring its safety for your baby's consumption. Here’s everything you need to know about how long breast milk lasts in the fridge:
Understanding Storage Guidelines
Breast milk storage guidelines recommend refrigerating freshly expressed milk promptly to preserve its nutrients and reduce the risk of bacterial contamination. The temperature of your fridge plays a vital role in maintaining the milk's quality.
Duration of Refrigeration
- Freshly Expressed Milk: Breast milk can be safely stored in the back of the refrigerator for up to 4 to 5 days at temperatures of 32–39°F (0–4°C). It's essential to use it within this timeframe to ensure its nutritional value.
- Previously Frozen Milk: If you thaw frozen breast milk in the refrigerator, it can typically be kept for up to 24 hours. Avoid refreezing thawed breast milk to maintain its quality.
Tips for Proper Storage
- Labeling and Dating: Always label breast milk containers with the date it was expressed. Use the oldest milk first to ensure freshness.
- Hygiene Practices: Wash hands thoroughly before expressing milk and use clean containers and pump parts. Proper hygiene reduces the risk of bacterial contamination.
- Temperature Control: Place breast milk containers at the back of the fridge where temperatures are more consistent. Avoid storing milk in the fridge door, where temperatures fluctuate more frequently.
Checking for Spoilage
Inspect breast milk before feeding. It should smell slightly sweet and have a creamy appearance. Discard any milk that smells sour or has changed color.
Conclusion
Proper storage of breast milk in the fridge ensures that it remains safe and nutritious for your baby. Following these guidelines helps maintain the quality of breast milk, providing essential nutrients and antibodies crucial for your baby's health. By understanding how long breast milk lasts in the fridge and practicing good storage habits, you can ensure your baby receives the best possible nutrition.
