How do I safely store and thaw breast milk?

Proper storage and thawing of breast milk are crucial to maintain its quality. Here’s how to do it safely:

1. Storage Guidelines:
   1. Room Temperature: Freshly expressed breast milk can be stored at room temperature (up to 77°F or 25°C) for up to 4 hours.
   2. Refrigerator: Store breast milk in the fridge (at or below 40°F or 4°C) for up to 4 days.
   3. Freezer: Use a deep freezer (-4°F or -20°C) for long-term storage, keeping milk for up to 6-12 months.
2. Thawing Milk:
   1. In the Refrigerator: Thaw frozen milk in the fridge overnight.
   2. Warm Water: Place the bag or bottle of milk in a bowl of warm water to thaw quickly. Avoid using a microwave, as it can create hot spots and degrade the milk.
3. Using Thawed Milk: Use thawed milk within 24 hours and do not refreeze it.