Do I really have to throw formula out after a month?

So DS is exclusively breastfed, and my stubborn princess who doesn't like to nurse gets EBM in a bottle most the time. On occasion I end up giving her a bottle of forumla for whatever reason...so I still have the sample size can of similac from the hospital. I was reading it today and it says you can only have it open for a month, then you're supposed to throw it out. I've had it open for well over a month, and there's probably still 75% of it left. I hate to throw it out because it's expensive, and seems like a waste. Is it really bad to use after a month?

Thanks,

Jennifer

 

I would toss it. It's not hard for it to get contaminated with all the scooping and what not and everything is going to have bacteria introduced. If you think about it, a month is already a long time for that bacteria to be growing. I was also always concerned about mold. I mean, formula makes a pretty good feeding bed for just about anything!

 

Another vote for "toss".

 

I vote toss as well. I wonder if it would keep longer if it was kept in the fridge? Something to ask the ped.

 

Toss it ...

 

I do remember reading on my cans of powdered formula that the label said DO NOT store in the refrigerator!! Don't know why?? Just thought I'd add that, cause it seemed like the logical solution to me!

Jennifer, I would also go ahead and "toss" the sample can that you have. I don't know what kind of formula you use, but I know many of the different brands make "single serving packets" that might be a good idea for you, since you use it so infrequently. The individual packets stay sealed until used, so you might be able to store them longer than the cans of powder. Just an idea, HTH!

 

Yep, since it has been open for over a month I would toss it.