How Long Can You Store Breast Milk at Room Temp?
Other People Are Reading
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Ideal Recommendation
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To maximize its nutritional content and keep it fresh, the La Leche League International recommends leaving breast milk at room temperature for only four hours. However, up to six hours is acceptable. La Leche League identifies room temperature as between 66 and 77 degrees F. They do advise chilling the milk immediately after pumping, if possible.
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Acceptable Guidelines
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The American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) states that breast milk can be stored at room temperature, which they define as less than 77 degrees F, for four to eight hours. The La Leche League acknowledges this recommendation, but regards over four hours as less than ideal. The AAFP also advises to chill the milk immediately, if possible.
Bottom Line
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The prevailing theory is that breast milk should be chilled immediately if it is not going to be used right away. However, it is safe to keep it at room temperature for a few hours, but never more than eight. For more specific and personalized advice on breast feeding, pumping and storage, new mothers should consult a lactation specialist.
References
- Photo Credit bottle image by drjay from Fotolia.com
