What is the maximum time breast milk can be refrigerated before it spoils?

What is the maximum time breast milk can be refrigerated before it spoils?

• A. 24 hours
• B. 48 hours
• C. 72 hours
• D. One week

Answer: (B)

The maximum time breast milk can be refrigerated before it spoils is indeed 48 hours. When breast milk is freshly expressed, it can be safely stored in the refrigerator at a temperature of 4°C (39°F) or lower for this period while maintaining its nutritional quality and preventing spoilage. Breast milk contains beneficial immunological substances and enzymes that are best preserved when refrigerated for up to 48 hours. Beyond this timeframe, there is an increased risk of bacterial growth and a decline in the milk's quality, which can lead to spoilage. Longer storage periods are recommended for frozen breast milk, but when it comes to refrigeration, adhering to the 48-hour guideline is crucial for the safety and health of the infant.

The maximum time breast milk can be refrigerated before it spoils is indeed 48 hours. When breast milk is freshly expressed, it can be safely stored in the refrigerator at a temperature of 4°C (39°F) or lower for this period while maintaining its nutritional quality and preventing spoilage.

Breast milk contains beneficial immunological substances and enzymes that are best preserved when refrigerated for up to 48 hours. Beyond this timeframe, there is an increased risk of bacterial growth and a decline in the milk's quality, which can lead to spoilage.

Longer storage periods are recommended for frozen breast milk, but when it comes to refrigeration, adhering to the 48-hour guideline is crucial for the safety and health of the infant.