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How To Reconstitute Freeze-Dried PDHM

Eurofins conducts routine environmental testing at the processing facility for contaminants including Cronobacter, Yeast & Mould, Staphylococcus, Coliform, Escherichia coli, Bacillus cereus, and Listeria monocytogenes. We recommend adhering to the primary guidelines issued by the CDC for the safe preparation of breast milk powder.

– Any left over milk may be used within 2 hours of the feed. Any milk kept after 2 hours should not be used.

Remember to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water before preparing freeze dried milk.

1. Add water

Boil water and let is cool for 5 minutes. To prevent clumping, you may need to warm the water beforehand. If your baby is immune-compromised, premature, or younger than 3 months, seek advice from your healthcare provider or follow the Australian Breast Feeding Association guidelines.

  • Remember to pour the water first and then add the powder.
    • Too much water may not meet the nutritional needs of your baby.
    • Too little water may cause your baby’s kidneys and digestive system to work too hard and may cause your baby to become dehydrated.
  • Avoid using a microwave to heat a prepared breast milk bottle. Microwaving can lead to a loss of nutrients in the breast milk and create uneven heating, potentially causing hot spots that may scald a baby’s mouth.

2. Add powder

We suggest propping the pouch open to facilitate pouring. Pouring the full amount is the safest way to transfer the powder, if you want to use only a portion of the powder, use a clean, dry measuring scoop and then re-seal the pouch.

3. Mix it up

Seal and swirl. Depending on the fat content, it might take a bit longer for the fats to dissolve. If any clumps persist, gently warm under running warm water and continue swirling and eventually shake as needed.
 
Freeze-Dried breast milk has not been homogenised. The fat content in the milk will differ from donor to donor and batch to batch.
  • If needed, you may have to use slightly warmer water to ensure the fats in the milk dissolve. However, be cautious as this may result in the milk being too hot for feeding. To use it immediately, cool the milk to a suitable temperature before feeding. Take care to prevent any cooling water from entering.
  • Studies have indicated that heating breast milk to 38°C (100.4°F) — slightly above body temperature — can lead to the breakdown of its proteins. This emphasises the need for caution when rehydrating breast milk powder, as it may result in the loss of crucial immunologically active and digestive components that are beneficial for babies. For instance, enzyme activity, such as amylase (which breaks down carbohydrates) and lipase (which breaks down fats), starts to diminish at 40°C (104°F). Therefore, it’s important to avoid overheating the milk during the preparation process.

4. Feed

Remember to ensure that the temperature is not too hot. Test the milk’s warmth by placing a few drops on the inside of your wrist. It should feel comfortably warm, not hot.