bottle feed breastmilk question

Mrs.Saxy · May 2011

How long is it safe to keep a BM bottle out after LO has drank from it?

The BM was on the counter for about 2 hours after expression. I gave it to him and he didn't finish. About an hour later he was rooting so I gave him the rest.

I've tried to find the answer online but can't.

AutumnBride929 · May 2011

I thought it was an hour but I'm really not sure. I might be confusing that with a formula bottle, lol.

OctGirl80 · May 2011

AutumnBride929:
I thought it was an hour but I'm really not sure. I might be confusing that with a formula bottle, lol.

From Kellymom.com: "Breastmilk can safely stand at room temperature for 6 to 8 hours and need not be discarded if the first feeding attempt is incomplete. In contrast, formula must be refrigerated and discarded after the first feeding attempt because it contains no antibodies or infection protection factors."

Kellymom.com has loads of info like that. I found it really helpful when I was BF/pumping.

ETA: I've done it a ton of times. DD is a snacker and would eat anywhere from 1 oz to 4 oz at a feeding.

drea_raye · May 2011

Mixed opinions... my LC would say 1hour (like formula) because of the possibility of bacteria from LOs mouth, but Kellymom (as pp said) quotes studies that show no issue/ increase in bacteria after a time. I would have (and have in similar situations) given the milk. Especially when we try to feel LO a 3oz bottle, he drinks 1/2oz, then wants more later.

I think you are safe Big Smile

mchupie · May 2011

I've heard 4 hours, so we usually toss it after that.

Jenniferk08 · May 2011

I believe it's 3-4hrs at room temp. 3 days in the fridge. HTH.

bobbysgirl08 · May 2011

If LO doesn't finish a bottle, do you put it back in the fridge for another feeding? I believe you can, but want to make sure! It'd be such a waste to throw it out!

krysimulf · May 2011

The LC said if they don't finish it, you can use it for the next feeding (don't mix them) but if they don't finish it then you have to throw it out.

hth

joules11235 · May 2011

I was told that as long as it's breast milk you can take it out of the fridge for the first feeding and if they don't finish it, you can give it for the next (only for the next). Don't put it back in the fridge, just leave it out. You don't want to change the temp that drastically so many times. You can reheat from room temp again, but don't put it back in the fridge. hth

jdnemmer · May 2011

WIC says BM is good for 5 hours at room temp, or 5 days in the fridge, or 5 months in the freezer. Easy enough to remember.

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