Neonatal: Safe Storage of Breast Milk
So, what are the guidelines and who set them?
- Breast milk must be stored at a temperature of +4⁰C or colder to maximise its lifespan and preserve its nutrients
This temperature is recommended and universally accepted by:
- The UNICEF Baby Friendly Network
- The Breastfeeding Network
- Great Ormond Street Hospital
- NHS Start for Life
- The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
But, to follow these guidelines is not as easy as you might think, as many medical fridges have a higher maximum temperature.
Why it needs to be a neonatal fridge:
Temperature:
Our neonatal fridges operate within an extremely tight temperature range of +2°C to +4°C.
In addition, they feature the dual probe temperature monitoring system pioneered by Lec Medical.
The first probe monitors the internal temperature of the fridge, while a second probe sits within a silicon oil formulated to mimic the breast milk stored inside.
This keeps you informed about the temperature of the actual breast milk supply, not just the fridge interior. Greater accuracy and added assurance.
Temperature accuracy maximises the lifespan of the breast milk, preserves its many benefits and gives added reassurance to nursing mothers and the NHS staff who care for them.
Security:
Of crucial importance, is ensuring the right breast milk reaches the right baby. Again, a standard medical fridge may not adequately do the job.
Our Neonatal 158 litre countertop fridge is the only product on the market offering integrated slide-out drawers with dividers which allow the breast milk of each individual patient to be separately organised and stored. It also comes with integrated shelf dividers to create smaller fridge compartments, helping staff keep the contents better organised and allowing the breast milk of individual patients to be kept separate.
An integrated digital lock ensures only authorised staff have access to the breast milk stored inside your fridge or freezer, guaranteeing the security of your items.
Want to read more about the range? Click here
