Frequently Asked Questions
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About Our Service
What does Mylka do?
Mylka provides a professional breastmilk processing service that gently freeze-dries expressed breastmilk into a compact, shelf-stable powder. This offers families a more flexible way to store, transport, and use their milk.
Is freeze-drying safe for breastmilk?
Freeze-drying is a well-established preservation method that removes water at low temperatures, without the use of heat. Scientific research shows this approach helps maintain breastmilk’s nutritional and bioactive components.
Does freeze-drying change the “goodness” of my milk?
Current research indicates that freeze-drying does not significantly damage or reduce key components of breastmilk, including proteins and immune factors, when handled and stored correctly.
Do you use heat or pasteurisation?
No. Our process does not use heat-based processing. We rely on freezing and controlled dehydration to preserve breastmilk.
Preparing & Sending Your Milk
How long can breastmilk be stored in the freezer?
According to World Health Organization (WHO) guidance, frozen breastmilk can be stored for up to 12 months when kept in a deep freezer at a consistent temperature. However, using frozen milk within 6–12 months is often recommended to support optimal quality. The choice of which milk you send is entirely up to you. We simply recommend following WHO guidance to help ensure the best possible outcomes for your milk.
How should my milk be stored before sending?
Milk must be:
- Stored in approved breastmilk storage bags
- Clearly labelled with your full name, date expressed, and any relevant notes
- Fully frozen for at least 48 hours before shipping
Milk that does not meet these requirements may be returned unprocessed.
What happens if my milk arrives partially thawed?
If your milk arrives partially thawed, there’s no need to worry - it can safely be re-frozen as long as ice crystals are still present.
If the milk has fully thawed, it may not meet the safety standards required for processing. In this situation, we will carefully assess the shipment and contact you to discuss the best next steps.
Our packing guidelines are thoughtfully designed to support frozen transit; however, Mylka is unable to accept responsibility for thawing that occurs during delivery.
Which days should I send my milk?
We strongly recommend shipping Monday–Wednesday only. Sending later in the week increases the risk of parcels being delayed over the weekend.
Do I need to include ice packs or dry ice?
No. Ice packs or dry ice are not required unless your cooler is very empty. If needed, frozen ice packs or frozen lactic bags can be used to fill excess space.
Shipping & Transit
Who is responsible for my milk during shipping?
All breastmilk is shipped at your own risk, consistent with New Zealand courier terms for perishable goods. Once a parcel is collected by the courier, responsibility for handling and transit lies with the courier provider.
What if my parcel is delayed or lost?
Any delays, losses, or damage during transit must be followed up directly with the courier provider. Mylka does not offer transit insurance for breastmilk.
Can I track my parcel?
Yes. Tracking details are provided via the courier once your parcel is in transit.
Processing & Storage
Can I choose my packaging format?
Yes - you can indicate your preferred packaging on the card included in your shipment box. Choose from single-serve sachets, multi-feed pouches, or a combination of both for added flexibility. If no preference is provided, your milk will be thoughtfully packaged in a balanced combination.
What single-serve sizes are available?
You can indicate your preferred sizes on the card included in your shipment box.
You can choose from 125ml, 150ml, 175ml, or 200ml single-serve sachets. These pre-measured portions are designed to make feeding simpler - perfect for daycare, travel, overnight bags, or busy days when convenience matters most.
What size are the multi-feed pouches?
Multi-feed pouches typically hold up to 400g of powder, depending on the volume and density of your milk once processed. Designed for convenient at-home use, they allow you to portion powder as needed while keeping the remainder securely sealed.
Each pouch also includes a handy how-to guide on the back, making preparation simple and reassuring whenever you need it.
How long does processing take?
We aim to have your order returned within 3-4 weeks. Processing times may vary depending on volume and demand.
How should freeze-dried milk be stored?
Freeze-dried milk should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from heat, moisture, and direct sunlight, in the packaging provided.
How should I store opened pouches?
Once opened, reseal the pouch promptly after removing excess air and store it in a cool, dry place away from heat, humidity, and direct sunlight. Proper sealing helps protect the powder from moisture and supports ongoing freshness. For best quality, we recommend using opened pouches within one month.
How long can processed breastmilk be stored?
When kept sealed in its original airtight packaging and stored as directed, freeze-dried breastmilk can remain shelf-stable for up to three years.
Once opened, we recommend using the powder within one month for best quality. After each use, remove excess air and reseal the pouch tightly to help protect the powder from moisture.
Using your Powder
How do I rehydrate the milk?
Rehydration instructions are provided with your order. Always follow these instructions carefully.
Can I refreeze rehydrated milk?
No. Once freeze-dried milk has been rehydrated, it should be used promptly and should not be refrozen. Any unused milk should be disposed of within 2hrs.
How much powder will my milk make?
The amount of powder produced varies, as every mother’s milk is unique. On average, breastmilk reduces to roughly 10–13% of its original volume once moisture is removed.
Is the powder easy to rehydrate?
Yes - processed breastmilk is designed to rehydrate smoothly. Simply follow the preparation guidance provided with your order to achieve a consistent feed.
Clear instructions are included on your packaging to make the process simple and reassuring.
Orders, Returns & Refunds
Can I change my mind after ordering?
Rehydration instructions are provided with your order. Always follow these instructions carefully.We do not offer refunds for change of mind once an order has been placed, due to the personalised nature of the service.
What if my milk can’t be processed?
We will always aim to work with the milk you send wherever safely possible. However, if it does not meet our intake standards, it may need to be returned unprocessed. Should this occur, processing fees are non-refundable, and return shipping costs are the customer’s responsibility.
Do you offer refunds?
Refunds are not available once processing has begun. This does not affect your rights under the Consumer Guarantees Act 1993 where applicable.
Health & Medical Questions
Is this medical advice?
No. Mylka does not provide medical, nutritional, or health advice. You should consult your healthcare provider if you have specific questions about feeding or storage suitability.
Is freeze-dried milk suitable for all babies?
Every family is different. It’s up to you to decide what’s right for your circumstances and to seek professional advice if needed.
General
Where are you based?
We are based in Gore, New Zealand, and currently offer services within New Zealand only.
How can I contact you?
You can reach us via the contact form on our website. We aim to respond as soon as possible.
Do you accept bulk or repeat orders?
Yes. If you’re looking at ongoing or larger-volume processing, please get in touch to discuss options.