Groundbreaking new guidance is revolutionising how parents store and handle expressed breast milk, overturning decades-old advice with a stronger scientific foundation. The latest recommendations provide a clearer, more practical roadmap for keeping precious milk safe and nutrient-rich for your baby.
The New Golden Rules for Milk Storage
Forget what you thought you knew. The updated guidelines, now backed by robust research, offer precise timelines for milk preservation:
- Room temperature (up to 25°C): Safely stored for 6-8 hours – significantly longer than previously advised
- Standard fridge (4°C or lower): Can be kept for up to 5 days
- Freezer compartment (-18°C): Preserves milk perfectly for up to 6 months
Why the Change Matters
This isn't just bureaucratic tweaking. The updated advice reflects a deeper understanding of breast milk's remarkable antibacterial properties and its resilience when stored correctly. For new parents navigating the exhausting early months, these evidence-based guidelines provide much-needed flexibility and confidence.
Essential Safety Practices
While storage times have expanded, certain non-negotiable practices remain critical:
- Always use sterilised containers specifically designed for milk storage
- Label every container with the date and time of expressing
- Thaw frozen milk slowly in the refrigerator or using warm water – never a microwave
- Use thawed milk within 24 hours and never refreeze
- Discard any milk left after a feed due to potential bacterial contamination
Expert Insight: Why Precision Matters
Healthcare professionals emphasise that while breast milk contains live components that fight bacteria, proper handling remains paramount. The updated guidelines strike a balance between maximising milk usage and ensuring absolute safety for vulnerable infants.
This research-backed approach helps reduce the heartbreaking waste of expressed milk while giving parents clearer, more practical parameters for their breastfeeding journey.
