Do you know how long can you store breast milk or baby formula? If not, we have answered the question in this post. Not only that, we also have answered the factors that determine how long they are safe to keep.
How Long Can You Safely Store Breast Milk?
You may be wondering how long you can store your breast milk. The good news is that you can store breast milk in the fridge for up to four days or six months in the freezer.
But there are a few things you need to keep in mind. First, label your milk with the date. Also, ensure you thaw your milk correctly before giving it to your baby.
And if you’re freezing your milk, try to break it up into small amounts, so it’s easier to thaw. That way, you’ll have plenty of milk available when you need it.
How Long Can You Safely Store Baby Formula?
You can store baby formula in the fridge for about two days. After that, it’s not safe to eat anymore.
If you want to store baby formula for a more extended period, you can freeze it. But make sure you don’t keep it for more than three months, and be aware that frozen baby formula will eventually lose its nutritional value.
Read more: Benefits of Breastfeeding for Mothers and Babies
What are the Storage Guidelines for Fresh Breast Milk?
There are a few things to keep in mind when storing breast milk. First, ensure to label the milk with the date and time you pumped it. That way, you’ll have a good idea of how fresh it is.
You also want to ensure to store the milk in a place that’s at room temperature or cooler and avoid exposing it to sunlight or extreme temperatures. And finally, you should only freeze breast milk if you plan on using it within the next two to three months.
What are the Storage Guidelines for Baby Formula?
When it comes to storing baby formula, it’s important to follow the guidelines set by the manufacturer. It is because the water in baby formula can be a breeding ground for bacteria, and if it’s not stored appropriately, this bacteria can make your baby sick.
The good news is that most baby formulas have a long shelf life. If you store them in a cool, dry place, they should be suitable for up to two years. And if you’re using powdered baby formula, you can keep it in the fridge for up to 24 hours after opening it.
How Can You Tell if Breast Milk or Baby Formula Has Gone Bad?
You can tell if breast milk or baby formula has gone bad by checking the expiration date on the container and smelling it.
If it’s expired, don’t use it. Don’t use it if it smells sour, unusual, or like ammonia. If you’re not sure, throw it out. It’s better to be safe than sorry.
What are the Consequences of Feeding Baby Spoiled Breast Milk or Baby Formula?
So now you know how long you can store breast milk and baby formula, but what are the consequences of feeding your baby spoiled milk or formula?
Your baby will get sick if they drink spoiled milk or formula. But did you know that it could also lead to more severe health problems?
Spoiled milk or formula feeding your baby can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and even death. So, you must follow the guidelines for storing milk and formula. Also, ensure to discard any milk or formula sitting around for too long.
Rea more: 13 Tips for Preventing Infections Before, During, and After Pregnancy
Conclusion
There are a few things to remember when storing breast milk and baby formula. First and foremost, it’s essential to abide by the guidelines set by the manufacturer of your chosen product.
Generally, it’s best to store fresh breast milk in the fridge for up to four days and in the freezer for up to six months. You can store baby formula in the refrigerator for up to two days after opening it. Whereas it could be good to use for up to three months if stored in the freezer.
