Storing breast milk

If you are expressing milk, you can keep it in a covered, sterile container in the refrigerator for up to 48 hours. The container used should not be clear or see-through as some vitamins are sensitive to light. To reheat breast milk, place the container in hot water - do not boil. Breast milk can also be frozen and is a good way to ensure you have extra milk available when needed. Fill the container to ¾ full, as the milk will expand on freezing. It can be kept in a deep freezer for 3-4 months but unfortunately the anti-infective properties of breast milk are destroyed by freezing. To thaw, place the container of breast milk in the refrigerator or under cold running water. Once thawed, use promptly. Do not refreeze.