FAQ - MilkWise

Question 1

What exactly is freeze-drying?

Accepted Answer

Freeze-drying (lyophilisation) is a preservation method that removes water from your milk by freezing it and then reducing the surrounding pressure so the ice turns directly into vapour - a process called sublimation. Because no heat is involved, the nutritional properties of your milk are preserved far better than with conventional drying methods.

Question 2

How long does the whole process take?

Accepted Answer

From the moment we receive your milk, processing typically takes 7–10 working days. Add 1–2 days for return shipping and you can expect your finished pouches back within 10–14 days of collection. We'll keep you updated at every stage.

Question 3

How much milk do I need to send?

Accepted Answer

We accept a minimum of 500ml (approximately 17oz) per order. There's no upper limit - many mothers send several litres at once. The more you send, the better value per pouch. Our collection kit includes guidance on how to portion and label your milk before shipping.

Question 4

What comes in the collection kit?

Accepted Answer

Your MilkWise collection kit includes pre-labelled food-safe storage pouches, an insulated shipping liner, a reusable ice pack, a prepaid tracked courier label, and a step-by-step instruction card. Everything you need - nothing you don't.

Question 5

Will my milk be mixed with anyone else's?

Accepted Answer

Never. Every batch is processed individually in a dedicated run. Your milk is assigned a unique batch ID from the moment it arrives at our facility, and that ID follows it through every stage - freeze-drying, packaging, and dispatch. We do not pool milk under any circumstances.

Question 6

What standards does your facility operate to?

Accepted Answer

Our facility operates under strict food-safety protocols and uses specialist freeze-drying equipment. We undergo regular third-party audits and all staff handling milk are trained in food hygiene. Full certification details are available on request.

Question 7

Is freeze-dried breast milk safe to feed to my baby?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Freeze-drying is a well-established preservation technique used widely in food science. Studies consistently show that freeze-dried breast milk retains its key nutrients, enzymes, and growth factors. As with any expressed milk, standard hygiene practices apply when reconstituting and feeding.

Question 8

How do you keep my milk safe during transit?

Accepted Answer

We use insulated, temperature-monitored packaging with reusable ice packs rated to keep contents frozen for 48 hours. All shipments are sent via next-day refrigerated courier with real-time tracking. If a shipment is delayed beyond our safety threshold, we will contact you immediately.

Question 9

Does freeze-drying affect the nutritional value of my milk?

Accepted Answer

Freeze-drying retains approximately 98% of the nutritional content of breast milk, including proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and - crucially - the bioactive compounds that make your milk unique. This is significantly better than heat-based drying methods, which degrade heat-sensitive components.

Question 10

How long does freeze-dried breast milk last?

Accepted Answer

When stored in our sealed, nitrogen-flushed pouches at room temperature, freeze-dried breast milk has a shelf life of up to three years. Once a pouch is opened, use within 24 hours. Reconstituted milk should be treated the same as fresh expressed milk.

Question 11

How do I reconstitute the powder?

Accepted Answer

Each pouch comes with clear reconstitution instructions printed on the label. In general, you add a measured amount of warm (not boiling) water to the powder, stir gently until fully dissolved, and feed as normal. The ratio is calibrated to match the original concentration of your milk.

Question 12

Do I need to refrigerate the pouches?

Accepted Answer

No - that's one of the key benefits. Sealed pouches can be stored at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and heat sources. This makes freeze-dried milk ideal for travel, emergencies, or simply freeing up freezer space. No cold chain required until after reconstitution.

Question 13

How do I sign up?

Accepted Answer

MilkWise is currently in its pre-launch phase. Join our waitlist using the form at the top of any page and you'll be among the first to know when we open for orders. Waitlist members will receive priority access and an exclusive early-bird rate.

Question 14

How much does it cost?

Accepted Answer

Pricing will be confirmed at launch. We're committed to making MilkWise accessible - our goal is to offer transparent, straightforward pricing with no hidden fees. Waitlist members will receive full pricing details before we open to the public.

Question 15

Where do you currently operate?

Accepted Answer

We are launching initially in the United Kingdom. If you're based outside the UK and would like to be notified when we expand, join the waitlist and let us know your location in the message field - we read every submission.

Question 16

I have a question that isn't answered here.

Accepted Answer

We'd love to hear from you. Head to our Contact page and send us a message - we aim to respond to all enquiries within one working day.

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