Store breast milk: Storage
In order not to exceed the shelf life, the date and time must be written on the container. In the hospital, the baby’s name should also be written on the container to avoid confusion. Special guidelines for storing breast milk apply to premature and sick infants. They should be clarified with the respective hospital.
Breast milk: What is the shelf life?
Storing breast milk at room temperature
If the room temperature is between 18 and 20 degrees Celsius, you can store breast milk without refrigerating it – but only for a maximum of eight hours. If the baby does not drink the milk within this period, it must be put in the refrigerator immediately.
Storing breast milk in the refrigerator
Freeze breast milk
Because frozen milk expands, do not fill the jar completely. Leave about three inches to the rim.
Storing breast milk: Mixing allowed
Thawing breast milk
If you want to thaw frozen breast milk, you must proceed slowly and gently so as not to destroy the ingredients. To do this, simply place the frozen milk in the refrigerator for 24 hours. After that, the breast milk can be reheated or stored sealed in the refrigerator for another 24 hours. Once opened, it will only keep refrigerated for a maximum of 12 hours.
Warming breast milk
Once warmed milk should be drunk quickly. Check the temperature on the back of your hand beforehand. Keeping breast milk if it has already been warmed more than an hour ago does not work. The same applies to reheating. Keeping breast milk warm is also not a good idea, as microorganisms multiply greatly in the process.
Storing breast milk: Transport
Storing breast milk: Good to know!
If the shelf life of breast milk is exceeded, these milk residues are still suitable as a bath additive.
If breast milk stands for some time – in the refrigerator or at room temperature – a layer of fat forms on the surface, which dissolves again when gently shaken. The bottom layer may appear yellowish or bluish. When storing breast milk, this is completely normal and not a sign that the milk is undrinkable.
