How long can you keep formula in fridge

Powdered Baby Formula

For parents who choose to formula feed, powdered baby formula has two distinct advantages: It’s the most affordable option and, with considerably less packaging than liquid formula options, it’s more environmentally conscious, too.

However, it’s worth noting that powdered formula can harbor a bacteria called cronobacter. While cronobacter infections are rare, they can be fatal for babies who are very young, premature or those with weakened immune systems. Preparing and storing formula safely can help prevent growth of cronobacter and other germs, like salmonella, according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). If powdered formula must be used for very young, premature or medically fragile babies, you may want to take extra precautions in preparing your infant’s formula.

How Long Is a Prepared Bottle Good for if Left Out at Room Temperature?

Once prepared, a bottle of powdered formula is safe at room temperature for up to two hours. Once parents begin feeding their infant, they should plan to use the bottle within one hour, says Corey Fish, M.D., lead pediatrician and chief medical officer at Brave Care in Portland, Oregon.

“Harmful bacteria can multiply in the bottle [when it’s left out to sit after a partial feed] and result in infecting your baby with a foodborne illness,” says Dr. Fish. “Due to their young age and lack of a fully developed immune system, the consequences could be severe to deadly.”

How Long Is a Prepared Bottle Good for if Refrigerated?

The safest way to offer formula—and avoid the potential for bacterial growth—is to prepare a fresh bottle just before feeding time. However, if parents must prep in advance, a pre-mixed and unused bottle may be stored in the refrigerator safely up to 24 hours.

How Long Is a Can of Powdered Baby Formula Good for Once Opened?

Once opened, most cans of powdered baby formula should be used within one month. However, it’s always best to read the product label for specifics. Parents should also adhere to each can’s expiration date.

Concentrated and Ready-to-Feed Baby Formula

Though typically more expensive than powdered formula options, concentrated and ready-to-feed liquid baby formulas offer parents convenience and ease of use. Concentrated formulas require dilution with water, but ready-made options require zero preparation before serving, making them the easiest formula type. Bonus: Liquid formulas are sterile, making them the safest option for very young and medically fragile babies.

How Long Is a Bottle Good for Once Opened?

Once opened, a container of concentrated or ready-to-feed formula should be used immediately or covered and stored in the refrigerator for up to 48 hours. Like powdered formula, an unused bottle can be kept at room temperature for two hours. Once sucked on, the bottle must be used or discarded within one hour.

Can I Save Leftover Formula in a Bottle After a Feeding?

No matter which formula you choose, the rules for feeding remain the same: The only place for a partially used bottle is down the drain, says Marina Chaparro, a registered dietitian and founder of Nutrichicos, a family-based nutrition practice in Miami.

“It can be tempting to reuse any formula that remains in the baby’s bottle, but doing so can put your baby at risk for bacterial contamination,” she says. The reason? Bacteria from a baby’s saliva can mix with the formula and multiply.

Can I Save Unused Formula That Was Heated?

Once heated, any type of unused formula should be consumed within one hour or discarded. “Formula should never be reheated because heating increases the rate of bacterial growth and starts to degrade nutrients,” says Lisa Richardson, a pediatric dietitian in Carrboro, North Carolina.

Pro Tips for Using Baby Formula

Like all things baby-related, preparing, storing and serving formula requires special attention. Keep these tips in mind to help ensure the safest formula feeding experience for your infant.

Read the Label

For the most up-to-date guidelines on preparing baby formula, study your specific formula product’s label. You’ll find specific directions for storing, preparing and diluting your formula, as well as tips for safe handling. If you plan to use powdered formula for a baby who is very young, premature or has a weakened immune system, use the CDC’s preparation guidelines.

Store All Containers in a Cool, Dry Place

Keep all unopened  formula in a cool, dry place with the lid secured. The CDC advises against storing unopened  formula in:

• Vehicles
• Garages
• Outdoors

Practice Safe Handling

When preparing baby formula, be sure to follow these safety guidelines:

• Wash your hands and workspace before preparing bottles.
• Wash bottles in hot, soapy water, and then sterilize them at a rolling boil. Boiling for 5 minutes is often recommended, but follow the package directions. You can also sterilize bottles using a microwave or plug-in steamer. Cool the bottles  before use.
• Never warm formula in a microwave, as doing so can result in uneven temperatures in the bottle and present a burn risk for your baby.

Plan Your Formula Prep Based on How Often Your Baby Feeds

While some parents choose to mix bottles for an entire day, Dr. Fish warns it may not be worth the risk of bacterial contamination. Instead, parents may opt to find a safe middle ground.

For instance, Chaparro recommends pre-measuring powder and water and waiting to mix the two until serving time. If your baby feeds every three to four hours, you will need six to eight bottles a day.

When in Doubt, Throw It Out

When it comes to formula feeding, Dr. Fish encourages all parents to live by this motto: When in doubt, throw it out. “Don’t try to save a few dollars,” he says. “Throw it out and make a new batch with a freshly sanitized bottle.”