Freeze-Drying Breast Milk
Freeze-drying breast milk is a method that preserves its nutrients and extends its shelf life. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not regulate breast milk freeze-drying services in the United States. This means there are no formalized FDA regulations for the breast milk freeze-drying industry and there is not a lot of research on the safety of freeze-dried milk outside of donor milk.1,2
What is Freeze-Drying?
Freeze-drying is a process that removes water from breast milk while preserving its nutrients. The process involves three main steps:
- Freezing: The breast milk is frozen at very low temperatures.
- Vacuuming: The frozen milk is placed in a vacuum chamber, where the ice crystals turn directly into vapor without passing through the liquid phase.
- Dehydration: The remaining moisture is removed, leaving behind a dry powder.
If you choose to work with a company to freeze-dry your milk, look for a company that is GMP certified. GMP stands for Good Manufacturing Practices, and is a set of safety and quality standards established by the FDA.3 They also set the standards required by the HMBANA (Human Milk Banking Association of North America), and address standards such as personal hygiene, facility design, cleanliness, sanitation and safety. Please be careful and aware of any potential risks involved.
What If I Have Questions?
If you are interested in learning more, these Aeroflow classes expand on some of the topics discussed above:
- Ultimate Breastfeeding Prep
- Lactation Q & A
To register for these classes, log into your portal or click here.
Want More Info?
For a directory of Aeroflow’s other Care Guides offering information on pregnancy, baby care, and more, browse our comprehensive list of titles:
Our classes and accompanying materials are intended for general education purposes and should not replace medical evaluation or consultation. Please seek advice from your own healthcare providers for individualized recommendations.
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