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Holder-Pasteurized Human Donor Milk: How Long Can It Be Preserved?
Marita de Waard1, Elise Mank2, Karin van Dijk3
1Department of Pediatrics, VU University Medical Center.
Journal of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition
|October 12, 2017
Summary
Pasteurized donor milk can be safely frozen for 8 months, maintaining nutritional quality and preventing bacterial growth. This extended storage reduces waste and lowers costs for human milk banks.
Area of Science:
- Neonatal Nutrition
- Food Science
- Microbiology
Background:
- Pasteurized donor milk is a vital alternative for preterm infants when maternal milk is insufficient.
- Current storage recommendations limit pasteurized donor milk to 3 months, leading to potential waste and increased costs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the safety and quality of pasteurized donor milk stored frozen for extended periods beyond the standard 3 months.
Main Methods:
- A prospective observational study analyzed 34 samples of pasteurized donor milk stored at -20°C.
- Monthly analyses for bacterial growth and macronutrient/energy content were performed for up to 1 year.
Main Results:
- Bacterial growth was detected in 9.8% of samples, but no sequential contamination occurred up to 8 months.
- No significant changes in fat, protein, carbohydrate, or energy content were observed over 8 months of frozen storage.
Conclusions:
- Pasteurized donor milk remains safe and retains its nutritional value when stored frozen at -20°C for up to 8 months.
- Extending the storage duration can minimize the disposal of expired donor milk and reduce operational expenses for milk banks.
