When it comes to baby formula, there is a lot of debate about what is the best brand and how long it can be stored. But What Happens If Baby Drinks Old Formula that’s been sitting in the fridge for a while? Is it safe? Will they get sick?
In this article, we’ll explore all of those questions and more so you can rest easy knowing that your baby is getting the best possible nutrition.
What Is Formula?
Formula milk is a type of baby formula that is made to resemble breast milk. It is usually made from cow’s milk that has been processed to remove the fat and lactose.
The milk is then enriched with vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients. Formula milk can also be made from soy, goat’s milk, or rice milk. While formula milk is not identical to breast milk, it does provide many of the same benefits.
Formula-fed babies tend to grow at a similar rate to breastfed babies, and they are less likely to suffer from problems like allergies or digestive issues. It can be a convenient option for parents who are unable or unwilling to breastfeed.
What Happens If Baby Drinks Old Formula?
The formula typically has a shelf life of about two years. However, it is important to note that this only applies to unopened cans or containers of formula. Once the can or container is opened, the clock starts ticking and the formula will only be good for about a month. After that, it should be thrown out.
So, if you have an unopened can of formula that is a few months past its expiration date, it should still be safe to use. However, if you have an opened can of formula that is a few months old, you should throw it out and get a new one.
It is also important to note that baby formula should be stored in a cool, dry place. If it is stored in a warm or humid environment, it can spoil more quickly.
You Might Also Read: Can You Reheat Baby Formula?
How To Know If Formula Has Gone Bad?
Any parent who has ever used the formula to feed their child knows how important it is to make sure that the formula is fresh and has not gone bad. After all, no one wants to give their child a bottle of spoiled milk!
So, how can you tell if the formula has gone bad? There are a few key signs to look for.
- First, check the expiration date on the formula container. If the formula is past its expiration date, it should not be used.
- Second, take a look at the color of the formula. If it appears to be discolored or has separated into different layers, it should not be used.
- Finally, smell the formula. If it has a sour or off odor, it should not be used.
If you notice any of these signs, discard the Formula and start over with a new batch.
Can Babies Get Sick From Drinking Old Formula?
The formula is an important part of a baby’s diet, providing them with the nutrients they need to grow and thrive. However, the formula can go bad if it is not used within a certain timeframe. While some parents may be tempted to give their baby old formula, it is important to know that doing so can put the baby at risk for illness.
The symptoms of this sickness can range from a mild upset stomach to diarrhea and vomiting. If you think your baby has a drunk expired formula, it is important to take them to the doctor right away so they can be properly treated.
In some cases, drinking expired formula can lead to dehydration, which can be very dangerous for babies.
- One of the biggest dangers of giving a baby old formula is that it may contain harmful bacteria. When the formula is made, it goes through a process of sterilization to kill any bacteria that may be present. However, over time, bacteria can begin to grow in the formula again. If a baby ingests this bacteria, it can lead to illnesses such as diarrhea or vomiting.
- Additionally, the old formula may not provide babies with the nutrients they need. The nutrition in formula degrades over time, so giving babies old formula is like giving them an inferior product.
- Finally, the old formula may have a different taste or odor than fresh formula, which can cause the baby to refuse it.
What Happens If Formula Is Left Out Too Long?
When parents are out and about with their babies, they may sometimes find themselves in a situation where they need to use formula milk. However, it is important to be aware of the dangers of using milk that has been left out for too long.
If a formula milk is left out at room temperature for more than an hour, bacteria can start to grow. This can make the baby sick, and in some cases, it can even lead to death. There have been a number of high-profile cases in recent years where babies have died after being fed milk that was not properly stored.
As a result, it is essential to always follow the instructions on the formula milk tin, and to make sure that the milk is used within an hour of being made up.
If you’re out and about with your baby, it’s best to pack a cool bag with an ice pack to keep the milk chilled. You should also make sure that you only prepare enough milk for each feed, as you shouldn’t try to re-heat and re-use leftover milk.
If you are unsure about whether the milk is still safe to use, it is better to err on the side of caution and throw it away.
What Do I Do If I Feed My Baby Old Formula?
So, you fed your baby old formula. It happens to the best of us. Whether we forget to check the expiration date or we just didn’t realize how long it had been in the pantry, sometimes we end up feeding our babies formula that’s past its prime. So, what should you do if this happens to you?
First, don’t panic.
It’s highly unlikely that your baby will suffer any ill effects from drinking expired formula. However, it’s important to remember that formula is a perishable food, so it can start to spoil after its expiration date.
This means that it may not be as effective in preventing hunger and promoting growth. If you’re concerned about your baby’s health, call their pediatrician for guidance.
Next, take steps to ensure that this doesn’t happen again in the future.
Expiration dates are there for a reason, so make sure to check them before giving your baby any formula. Also, try to use up any open containers of formula within a month of opening them.
And, if you have any unused or partially used containers of formula, be sure to store them properly in a cool, dry place. By taking these precautions, you can help ensure that your baby always has a fresh, nutritious formula to drink.
Conclusion
So, What Happens If Baby Drinks Old Formula? The short answer is that it’s not good. The long answer is a little more complicated. When milk spoils, it can produce harmful toxins like bacteria and mycotoxins.
These toxins can cause vomiting and diarrhea in babies, as well as other health problems like dehydration, respiratory illnesses, and even seizures. In severe cases, these toxins can be deadly.
That’s why it’s so important to always discard expired formulas and never try to save or reuse them. If you have any questions about when to throw out an old formula or how to store fresh formula properly, please consult your pediatrician. Thanks for reading!
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