Why You Shouldn't Refreeze Thawed Breast Milk: Key Insights

Q: Why You Shouldn't Refreeze Thawed Breast Milk: Key Insights

Hello： 1. The 5% thawed liquid can be fed to the baby, while the remaining solid portion can be refrozen. However, the thawed liquid must be consumed within four hours; any leftover after four hours should be discarded! 2. The reason thawed breast milk cannot

The reason why thawed breast milk cannot be refrozen is due to the risk of bacterial growth. When breast milk is thawed, it reaches a temperature that allows bacteria to multiply. Refreezing it can lead to the survival of these bacteria,

Hello, Dr.
Pei!
1.
I have breast milk stored in the freezer that has partially thawed to about 5% due to a power outage, but it is mostly still solid.
Since my child cannot consume it within 24 hours, can I refreeze it for later use?
2.
Additionally, what is the reason that thawed breast milk cannot be refrozen? Is it because it could cause diarrhea or due to the loss of nutritional components? I've asked many people, including nurses, and no one seems to know.

cynthia, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/10/28

Dr. Pei Rensheng reply Pediatrics

Hello:
1.
The 5% thawed liquid can be fed to the baby, while the remaining solid portion can be refrozen.
However, the thawed liquid must be consumed within four hours; any leftover after four hours should be discarded!
2.
The reason thawed breast milk cannot be refrozen is due to safety concerns.
The milk extraction process is not sterile, and thawing can allow bacteria to revive and multiply, making it unsafe for refreezing!
Below are the storage methods and durations for breast milk for working mothers:
(1) Breast milk at room temperature: (Colostrum - 12 to 24 hours; Mature milk - 6 to 10 hours)
(2) Frozen breast milk (in the freezer compartment of the refrigerator - 2 weeks; in a separate freezer compartment - 3 to 4 months)
(3) Breast milk in the refrigerator (mature milk - up to 5 days)
(4) Thawed breast milk in the refrigerator that has not been heated (can only be used within 4 hours at room temperature; if kept in the refrigerator, it can be used within 24 hours but cannot be refrozen.)
(5) Thawed milk warmed with warm water (can still be used within 4 hours in the refrigerator but cannot be refrozen.)
If you find it difficult to remember these timeframes, the current maternal and child-friendly hospitals recommend that new mothers remember the "Three, Three, Three Principle": that is, it can be kept at room temperature for three hours, in the refrigerator for three days, and in a separate freezer for three months.
These are absolutely safe timeframes, and mothers can use this as a storage standard.

Wishing you health and happiness!
Sincerely,
Pei Ren-Sheng

Reply Date: 2006/10/28

More Info

When it comes to the topic of breast milk and its handling, particularly regarding thawing and refreezing, there are several important considerations to keep in mind.
Firstly, it is crucial to understand that breast milk is a living substance that contains a variety of nutrients, antibodies, and other bioactive components that are beneficial for an infant's health. When breast milk is frozen, it preserves these nutrients and properties, but once it is thawed, the situation changes.
1. Refreezing Thawed Breast Milk: The general recommendation is to avoid refreezing thawed breast milk. This is primarily due to the risk of bacterial growth. When breast milk is thawed, it may reach temperatures that allow bacteria to multiply. If you refreeze it, you are essentially freezing those bacteria, which can pose a health risk when the milk is later consumed. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises that thawed breast milk should be used within 24 hours if kept in the refrigerator and should not be refrozen.

2. Nutritional Integrity: While some nutrients may be lost during the thawing process, the primary concern with refreezing is not just nutrient loss but the potential for bacterial contamination. Studies have shown that while some vitamins may degrade slightly upon thawing, the overall nutritional value of breast milk remains relatively intact if it is handled properly. However, the risk of spoilage and bacterial growth far outweighs the concern of nutrient loss.

3. Digestive Issues: Regarding your concern about whether refrozen breast milk could cause diarrhea in your child, it is possible. If the milk has been contaminated with bacteria due to improper handling (like refreezing), it could lead to gastrointestinal issues, including diarrhea. Infants have developing immune systems, and exposure to harmful bacteria can lead to more severe health issues.

4. Best Practices for Handling Breast Milk: To ensure the safety and quality of breast milk, consider the following best practices:
- Always label containers with the date and time of expression.

- Store breast milk in small portions to minimize waste.

- Thaw breast milk in the refrigerator or under warm running water, not at room temperature.

- Use thawed breast milk within 24 hours and do not refreeze it.

- If your child does not finish a bottle of thawed milk, it should be discarded after one feeding session.

5. Alternative Solutions: If you find that you often have leftover thawed breast milk, consider adjusting the portion sizes you freeze or using smaller storage bags. This way, you can minimize waste and ensure that your child receives fresh milk without the risks associated with refreezing.

In conclusion, while breast milk is incredibly nutritious and beneficial for infants, proper handling is essential to maintain its safety and quality. Avoiding the refreezing of thawed breast milk is a critical guideline to follow to protect your child's health. If you have any further questions or concerns about breast milk storage and handling, consulting with a pediatrician or a lactation consultant can provide personalized guidance tailored to your situation.

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