Similac formula can safely sit out at room temperature for up to 2 hours once it is prepared. After mixing the formula, it should be used within this 2-hour window or refrigerated promptly and used within 24 hours. However, once the baby starts feeding from the bottle, any remaining formula should be consumed within 1 hour or discarded to prevent bacterial growth. This applies to powder, liquid concentrate, and ready-to-feed formulas. For opened ready-to- feed or liquid concentrate formulas stored in the refrigerator, the usage window can extend up to 48 hours.
Key Points on Similac Formula Storage and Safety:
- Prepared formula (powder, liquid concentrate, or ready-to-feed) can sit out at room temperature (up to about 77°F or 25°C) for up to 2 hours.
- Once feeding starts, leftover formula in the bottle should be used within 1 hour or discarded.
- Prepared formula can be refrigerated within 2 hours of preparation and should be used within 24 hours (powder mixed formula).
- Opened ready-to-feed or liquid concentrate formula, refrigerated and covered, can be used within 48 hours.
- Do not store powder formula in the refrigerator; store unopened or opened powder formula in a cool, dry place and use within 30 days after opening.
- Always discard formula past the “use by” date on the package.
These guidelines help ensure the formula remains safe and minimizes the risk of bacterial contamination that can occur after the baby feeds from the bottle or if formula is left too long at room temperature.
