How to properly store and thaw frozen breast milk

Here are some steps you can follow to properly store and thaw frozen breast milk:

Store the milk in a clean container: Use a clean, food-grade plastic or glass container with a tight-fitting lid to store the breast milk. Avoid using containers with a lot of air space, as this can cause the milk to spoil more quickly.
Label the container with the date: Use a permanent marker to label the container with the date the milk was expressed. This will help you keep track of how long the milk has been in the freezer.
Store the milk in the back of the freezer: Place the container of breast milk in the back of the freezer, where the temperature is most consistent. Avoid storing the milk near the door, where the temperature can fluctuate more.
Thaw the milk in the refrigerator: When you are ready to thaw the breast milk, transfer the container to the refrigerator and allow it to thaw slowly. This will take several hours or overnight, depending on the amount of milk.
Warm the milk gently: If you need to warm the breast milk, place the container in a bowl of warm water or use a bottle warmer. Avoid heating the milk in the microwave or on the stove, as this can destroy the nutrients and antibodies in the milk.
Use the milk within 24 hours: Once the breast milk has been thawed, it should be used within 24 hours to ensure its freshness and safety.

By following these steps, you can properly store and thaw frozen breast milk to use for your baby.

It’s important to remember that breast milk is a perishable food, and it should be handled carefully to ensure its quality and safety.