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How long can breast milk be stored after expressing without a refrigerator?
The question of how much breast milk can be stored is relevant if it is necessary to prepare it for future use. The reasons can be associated with both the temporary absence of the mother, and with the health of her or the baby. Knowing how to express and store this product, you can safely go to work or on a business trip, provide your baby with food for the duration of your illness.
How to freeze milk after expressing
Research has shown that breast milk does not lose its properties when chilled and frozen. It cannot be heated, let alone boiled, over a fire or in a microwave. To do this, use a special electrical appliance, or put the bottle in a container with warm water. With rapid heating and under the action of microwaves, the beneficial substances contained in it are destroyed.
Breast milk is best stored in the refrigerator or freezer
For storage, you can use small containers or special bags sold at the pharmacy. The second option is more convenient, since it guarantees the sterility of the container, has an optimal volume and takes up little space in the freezer. The freezing sequence is as follows:
- When expressing, pour milk into bags as needed for one feeding.
- Sign the collection date of the milk, which will allow you to control the period of use, refrigerate.
- Place the bag in the milk storage section of the freezer.
- Defrost it before use, then heat it up.
Milk is stored in a separate section for up to 6 months, in a common chamber it is less, since it is more often opened. You cannot freeze it again, it will lose its useful properties.
Is it possible to store it by pouring it into a bottle, without a refrigerator
Breast milk prevents the growth of bacteria and can even be stored indoors. How long it will be suitable for use depends on a number of conditions:
- If the room is warm from 25 ° C, the product must be used no later than 5 hours.
- If the room temperature is between 19 and 22 ° C, the milk does not spoil until 12 hours.
- If cooled to 16 ° C, storage time is doubled.
- When using the refrigerator, the beneficial properties are retained for up to 1 week.
All these terms are valid when using sterile and tightly closed containers. If possible, it is better to put it in the refrigerator and place it deeper.
It is advisable to always have a supply of breast milk at home. This will allow you to avoid unpleasant surprises and provide the baby with good nutrition.