Refrigerated breast milk is a valuable source of nutrition for infants. However, many mothers often wonder how long they can safely use refrigerated breast milk before it becomes unsuitable for consumption. Understanding the guidelines and recommendations for storing and using refrigerated breast milk can help ensure the safety and quality of this precious resource.
Breast milk is known for its numerous benefits for infants, providing them with essential nutrients and antibodies to support their growth and development. It is no wonder that many mothers choose to express and store breast milk for later use. However, it is important to note that breast milk is a perishable substance and should be handled and stored properly.
How Long Can Refrigerated Breast Milk Be Used?
Refrigerating breast milk is one common method of storing it for later use. When stored at the appropriate temperature, refrigerated breast milk can remain safe for consumption for a certain period of time. The general guideline is to use refrigerated breast milk within 3-5 days.
Proper Storage of Breast Milk
Proper storage of breast milk is crucial to maintain its quality and safety. Here are some key points to keep in mind when storing refrigerated breast milk:
1. Use Clean Containers:
Before expressing breast milk, make sure to wash your hands thoroughly and use clean containers for storage. It is recommended to use bottles specifically designed for storing breast milk or BPA-free plastic bags.
2. Label and Date:
To keep track of the age of the breast milk, it is important to label each container with the date it was expressed. This will help you to prioritize the use of older milk to prevent wastage.
3. Proper Temperature:
Refrigerated breast milk should be stored at a temperature below 40°F (4°C). It is best to place the containers of breast milk in the back of the refrigerator, where the temperature is more stable.
4. Avoid Temperature Fluctuations:
To maintain the quality of the breast milk, it is important to avoid frequent temperature fluctuations. Keep the refrigerator door closed as much as possible and avoid placing warm containers of breast milk directly into the refrigerator. Instead, let them cool to room temperature first.
5. Separate from Raw Meats:
To prevent cross-contamination, it is recommended to store breast milk separately from raw meats or other potentially contaminating substances.
Using Refrigerated Breast Milk
Once refrigerated breast milk has been stored for the recommended 3-5 days, it is important to assess its quality before feeding it to your baby. Here are a few key points to consider:
1. Smell and Appearance:
When you take the refrigerated breast milk out of the refrigerator, check its smell and appearance. It should have a mild, slightly sweet smell and a creamy appearance. If it has a sour or rancid smell, or if the appearance is significantly different, it may indicate that the milk has spoiled and should not be used.
2. Gently Swirl:
Before feeding refrigerated breast milk to your baby, give the container a gentle swirl. This helps to redistribute the cream, which may have separated during storage. It is normal for breast milk to separate, and gently swirling it will bring it back to a uniform consistency.
3. Temperature:
If you prefer to warm refrigerated breast milk before feeding it to your baby, avoid using the microwave, as it can create hot spots that may burn your baby’s mouth. Instead, place the container of breast milk in a bowl of warm water or use a bottle warmer to gently warm it to body temperature.
4. Offer Smaller Portions:
If you are unsure about the quality of the refrigerated breast milk, consider offering smaller portions to your baby. This way, if the milk does not agree with the baby or is not of the desired quality, you can minimize potential waste.
When to Discard Breast Milk?
There are certain instances when it is necessary to discard breast milk, even if it has been stored properly. Here are a few situations in which it is recommended to discard breast milk:
1. Contamination:
If breast milk comes into contact with an unsanitary surface, such as dirty hands or a soiled container, it should not be used. Avoid transferring milk back and forth between containers as it increases the risk of contamination.
2. Expired Milk:
Breast milk that has been refrigerated for longer than the recommended 3-5 days should be discarded. Using expired breast milk can increase the risk of infection or spoilage.
3. High Lipase Levels:
Some mothers may notice that their refrigerated breast milk develops a soapy or metallic taste after a day or two in the refrigerator. This is caused by high lipase levels, an enzyme naturally present in breast milk. While high lipase levels do not pose a health risk, some babies may refuse to drink milk with a strong taste. If your baby rejects breast milk due to high lipase levels, it may be necessary to discard the refrigerated milk or scald it before storage.
In conclusion, refrigerated breast milk can be safely used for 3-5 days if stored properly. By following the guidelines for storage and using your senses to assess its quality, you can ensure the safety and quality of your breast milk for your little one. Remember, when in doubt, it is always better to err on the side of caution and discard breast milk if you have any concerns about its safety or quality.