How long can fresh human milk be stored in a cooler with ice packs for hospitalized infants?

Fresh human milk can be safely stored in a cooler with ice packs for up to four hours for hospitalized infants. This duration is recommended to help maintain the quality and nutritional value of the milk while protecting it from bacterial growth. It ensures that the milk remains at a safe temperature, providing adequate nutrition to the infants during their hospital stay.

While longer storage options may be available under different conditions, such as in more controlled refrigeration environments, the four-hour guideline is crucial for ensuring safety and efficacy in feeding hospitalized infants who may be particularly vulnerable.