Formula feeding is a great choice for parents who cannot or choose not to breastfeed. However, it can be challenging to determine how long you can keep the formula once your baby has consumed it. While formula bottles include essential nutrients for your little one, they can quickly become a breeding ground for bacteria if not handled correctly. In this article, we’ll explore how long you can keep formula after your baby drinks it and the best practices for storing and disposing of leftover formula.
Understanding the Shelf Life of Formula
As a new parent, one of the most important things you need to know is how long you can keep formula after your baby drinks it. Formula is a perishable product, and it is crucial to follow proper storage and handling guidelines to ensure that your baby stays healthy and safe. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the shelf life of formula and discuss some of the essential things you need to know.
What is Formula?
Before we dive into the shelf life of formula, let’s first define what it is. Formula is a specially designed milk-based or soy-based product that is formulated to meet the nutritional needs of babies who are not breastfed. It is available in powder, liquid concentrate, and ready-to-feed forms, and it is typically made from a combination of protein, fat, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals.
The shelf life of formula depends on the type of formula and how it is stored. Generally, ready-to-feed formula can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 48 hours after your baby drinks it. However, if the formula has been left out of the fridge for more than an hour, it must be discarded.
Powdered formula, on the other hand, can be stored for up to 24 hours after it has been mixed with water. If you do not use the formula within 24 hours, you should discard it. Additionally, if your baby does not finish a bottle of formula within an hour of starting it, you should throw away the remaining formula.
Proper Storage and Handling of Formula
To ensure that your baby’s formula stays fresh and safe to consume, it is essential to follow proper storage and handling guidelines. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Store unopened formula cans in a cool, dry place, such as a pantry or cupboard.
- Once you open a can of formula, transfer the contents to an airtight container and store it in the fridge.
- Do not store formula on the door of the fridge as this area is subject to temperature fluctuations.
- Always wash your hands before preparing formula.
- Use clean bottles, nipples, and other feeding equipment.
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for mixing and preparing formula.
- Do not reuse leftover formula from a previous feeding.
- If you are traveling with formula, use a cooler bag to keep it cool.
Signs Your Formula Has Gone Bad
It is essential to check your baby’s formula before feeding it to them to ensure that it has not gone bad. Here are some signs that your formula has gone bad:
- The formula smells sour or rancid.
- The formula has changed color, such as becoming darker.
- The formula has clumps or lumps.
- The container or packaging is damaged or swollen.
If you notice any of these signs, you should discard the formula and prepare a fresh batch.
Other Factors to Consider
While the shelf life of formula is an essential consideration, there are other factors to think about when it comes to feeding your baby. For example, you should always be mindful of how much formula your baby needs at each feeding, as overfeeding can lead to health problems.
Additionally, it is essential to pay attention to your baby’s cues and adjust their feeding schedule as needed. For example, if your baby is going through a growth spurt, they may need to eat more frequently.
Furthermore, it is always a good idea to consult with your pediatrician if you have any concerns about your baby’s feeding habits or if you have any questions about the shelf life of formula.
FAQs for How Long Can You Keep Formula After Baby Drinks
How long can you keep formula once the baby has started drinking it?
It is not safe to keep formula that the baby has started drinking for more than an hour. Once the baby has started feeding from the bottle, the bacteria from the baby’s mouth mixes with the formula, making it a breeding ground for germs. This increases the risk of contamination, and the longer the formula stays in the bottle, the higher the risk. Therefore, it is recommended to throw away any remaining formula after an hour of serving.
Can I refrigerate the formula if the baby doesn’t finish their bottle?
It is safe to refrigerate the remaining formula if the baby doesn’t finish their bottle as long as it is within an hour of being served. However, it is crucial to know that the refrigerated formula should be discarded if it has been kept for 24 hours in the refrigerator. Before serving the refrigerated formula, it is vital to reheat it to the right temperature before giving it to the baby.
How long can I keep an open can of formula?
Once you have opened a can of formula and prepared it, it is not safe to keep it for more than an hour. In the case of an open can of formula that has not been used, it is safe to keep it for up to one month from the date of opening, as long as you store it in a cool, dry place.
Can I reuse leftover formula from a previous feeding?
It is not recommended to reuse leftover formula that the baby has already started drinking. Once the formula has been exposed to the bacteria in the baby’s mouth, it becomes a breeding ground for germs, making it unsuitable for reuse. Always prepare a fresh bottle of formula for every feeding to avoid exposing the baby to harmful bacteria.
How can I tell if the formula has gone bad?
One of the most noticeable signs that formula has gone bad is the smell. If the formula smells sour or unpleasant, then it is likely that it has gone bad. Additionally, if the formula has a lumpy or grainy texture, or if it has changed color, then it is also a sign that it has gone bad. It is essential always to check for these signs before giving the formula to the baby to stay on the safe side. If in doubt, it is always better to throw away the formula and prepare a fresh one.