Do I HAVE to throw out a tin of formula after it's been open for 4 weeks?

[DebitheScot]

I'm giving my ds2 (3 months) about 2 bottles a week and they are a mix of about half and half formula and ebm. This means that the small tin of sma gold I bought isn't anywhere near finished and has been open for 4 weeks now. It says on the tin it should be thrown away after 4 weeks. Does anyone know if there is a good reason for this or if it's them playing safe and so using it for another few weeks would be ok?

it's because milk powder is not sterile and after a month bacteria are more likely to be present in amounts that could possibly be harmful. Sorry.

Yes I think you do because of bacteria.

Could you try using the cartons or SMA sachets which contain 7 scoops of powder I think that way depending how much you use 1 sachet would do you a week if you can keep them open for that long.

And cartons are good for that too they can be kept open for 48hours I think.

I would, if you're only doing so few bottles get some ready mix cartons in. Much easier and less wasteful too.

I was wondering if cartons will actually be more cost effective. I hope they are as they are a lot easier too. I'll have a look at how long you can keep the sachets open for too as that could also be a good option.

Better go and throw the leftovers out then. Glad I only bought a small tin as at least its only half a small tin being wasted.

I wonder how long it could be kept in freezer for if I made it up and froze it. Can you even do that? I suspect you can't do that for drinking but could I do that and keep it for mixing with food in 3 or 4 months time?

In 3 or 4 months time you'll be able to use cow's milk for food so I wouldn't bother freezing formula.

Oh I dont know about freezing formula personally I wouldnt do it though.

The cartons are not that expensive think are 50p for a small one... (?) could be wrong.

just googled it and you're not meant to freeze it. I'd forgotten that I can use cows milk in food from 6 months so thanks for that reminder.

Bugger - I'm in the same position and I've been using mine for months. Better throw it out!!