How long can breast milk be stored and how can I tell if it's spoiled?

Question

I have a little stash of breast milk in a deep freezer. It never gets opened. Maybe once every 2 weeks. How long does the milk last before it's spoiled and how can I tell if it's spoiled? I have breast milk dated back in March 2008. I read there are no studies done so no definite answer. I think Medela's website said 12 months for a deep freezer!

Answer 1

If it's frozen it will be good for 12 months. If it's spoiled it will smell nasty.

Answer 2

8 hours - room temp, 1 week - refrigerator, 6 months - freezer, 12 months - deep freezer, you would know if it's spoiled, it would smell bad.

Answer 3

   Fresh milk may be placed in a separate deep freeze (chest-type freezer) for 6-12 months. If previously kept at room temperature, or stored in a cooler or refrigerator before freezing, storage time may vary.

Milk that is older than the stated safe age, should not be automatically discarded. Milk that is truly bad has a very distinct sour taste and odor. Even if expressed milk is "out of date" it should still be considered safe to give a baby as long as it still has a fresh odor and/or taste.  

Answer 4

12 months if frozen. If it's spoiled it will have a change in color, consistency and smell.