As a new mom, you want to make sure that your baby is getting the best nutrition possible. Breast milk is the perfect food for your little one, providing all the essential nutrients they need to grow and thrive. But what happens when you need to store your breast milk? Many storage options are not environmentally friendly, but don’t worry, there are eco-friendly ways to store breast milk that won’t harm the environment. In this article, we will explore some of the best eco-friendly ways to store breast milk.
Why avoid plastic when storing breastmilk?
According to a recent study household plastics to leach over 8000 different chemicals, only 8% of which scientists could identify.
Many plastic containers are made with bisphenol A (BPA) or phthalates, which are chemicals that can interfere with hormonal and developmental processes in infants. These chemicals can leach into breast milk when it is stored in plastic containers, especially if the containers are heated, cooled, or scratched.
Instead of plastic, it is recommended to use glass or food-grade stainless steel containers to store breastmilk. These materials are safe and do not have the same potential to leach harmful chemicals into the milk. Additionally, they can be washed and sterilized more effectively than plastic, making them a safer and more hygienic option for storing breastmilk.
How do you store breast milk zero waste?
Storing breast milk with zero waste is possible by using reusable storage options such as glass jars or silicone storage bags instead of disposable plastic bags. Additionally, labeling and dating milk containers can help prevent waste by ensuring older milk is used first. When transporting breast milk, using an insulated cooler bag with reusable ice packs can also help reduce waste.
How long refrigerated breast milk can be left out at room temperature?
Refrigerated breast milk can be left out at room temperature for up to four hours. After four hours, the milk should be discarded to reduce the risk of bacterial growth and potential illness. It is important to keep breast milk at the appropriate temperature to ensure its safety and quality for the baby. If the milk has been left out for more than four hours, it should not be used and should be safely discarded.
Practical Suggestions for Storing Breast Milk: Women Share Their Stories Online
“I found that using glass jars to store breastmilk was a great eco-friendly option. Not only is it better for the environment, but it’s also safer for my baby since there’s no risk of harmful chemicals leaching into the milk.” – Emma
“Instead of using disposable plastic bags to store my milk, I invested in some reusable silicone storage bags. They’re easy to clean and have held up well, saving me money and reducing my waste.” – Olivia
“I love my Mason Bottle breast milk storage system. It’s so convenient to be able to store milk directly in glass jars, and it’s much more eco-friendly than using disposable bags or plastic containers.” – Lily
“I freeze my breastmilk in ice cube trays so that I can easily portion it out as needed. It’s also a great way to prevent waste since I can just thaw what I need and leave the rest in the freezer.” – Ava
“Labeling and dating breastmilk is so important to prevent waste. I always make sure to label my containers with the date that I expressed the milk so that I know when it needs to be used by.” – Mia
“When it comes to thawing breastmilk, I always opt for the refrigerator method. It takes a little longer, but it’s a more eco-friendly option than running it under hot water or using a microwave.” – Harper
FAQs about storing breast milk
Can I combine milk that was expressed at different times?
Yes, you can combine milk that was expressed at different times as long as they have been stored at the same temperature and are not expired.
How much breastmilk should I store per container?
It is recommended to store breastmilk in small amounts of 2-4 ounces per container to prevent waste.
Is it safe to store breastmilk in the fridge door?
It is not recommended to store breastmilk in the fridge door as the temperature fluctuates frequently.
How can I tell if my stored breast milk has gone bad?
You can tell if stored breast milk has gone bad if it has a sour or rancid smell, or if it appears to be chunky or discolored.
How do I transport breast milk safely when I’m on-the-go?
To transport breast milk safely, use an insulated cooler bag with ice packs and ensure the containers are tightly sealed.
Conclusion
Storing breast milk doesn’t have to harm the environment. By using eco-friendly storage options such as glass bottles, stainless steel containers, or silicone bags, you can store your breast milk safely while also protecting the planet. When storing breast milk, it’s important to choose reusable containers and avoid disposable options. Additionally, consider donating any excess breast milk to a breast milk bank to reduce waste and help other mothers and babies in need. With these tips, you can feel confident that you are doing your part to protect the environment while providing the best nutrition for your baby.
