What is the maximum hang time for human breast milk (HBM)?

What is the maximum hang time for human breast milk (HBM)?

• A. 8 hours
• B. 4 hours
• C. 12 hours
• D. 24 hours

Answer: (B)

Hang time for human breast milk is the period milk can sit at room temperature before it should be used or refrigerated to limit bacterial growth. The safe maximum at typical room temperature is four hours. Beyond that window, the risk of contamination increases, so milk left out longer should be discarded. The other options exceed what’s recommended and aren’t considered safe hang times for room-temperature milk. For completeness, store milk in the fridge for up to about four days, and in the freezer for several months; once thawed, keep it in the fridge for up to 24 hours and do not refreeze. If warmed for feeding, use within one to two hours.

Hang time for human breast milk is the period milk can sit at room temperature before it should be used or refrigerated to limit bacterial growth. The safe maximum at typical room temperature is four hours. Beyond that window, the risk of contamination increases, so milk left out longer should be discarded. The other options exceed what’s recommended and aren’t considered safe hang times for room-temperature milk. For completeness, store milk in the fridge for up to about four days, and in the freezer for several months; once thawed, keep it in the fridge for up to 24 hours and do not refreeze. If warmed for feeding, use within one to two hours.