The freezing process must commence within 18 hours of collection for whole blood plasma and within 6 hours of collection for apheresis plasma.
FFP must be frozen to a core temperature below –30º C within 1 hour of starting the freezing process.
A unit of FFP contains all coagulation factors including the labile plasma coagulation Factors VIII and V. An adult dose contains approximately 200 IU of Factor VIII.
FFP has a shelf life of 12 months when stored at –25º C or below.
Paediatric FFP is produced from a single adult unit of whole blood plasma which is then separated into four packs of equal volume. This reduces donor exposure for small volume paediatric transfusions and minimises product wastage.
Typical unit content and specifications
The typical unit content data is derived from Lifeblood process control testing. For each parameter, the mean value (± 1 SD) and specification is shown.
Unless otherwise specified, data is for the period 1 January to 31 December 2023.
Fresh frozen plasma whole blood
| Volume (mL) | 285 ± 14 (250–310) |
| Factor VIIIc (IU/mL) | 1.11 ± 0.37 (≥ 0.70) |
Fresh frozen plasma paediatric
| Volume (mL) | 69 ± 4 (60–80) |
Fresh frozen plasma apheresis
| Volume (mL) | 272 ± 5 (250–310) |
| Factor VIIIc (IU/mL) | 1.38 ± 0.41 (≥ 0.70) |
Availability
This component is available in all ABO groups. Matching for RhD type is not necessary.
Modifications
FFP can be modified as IgA deficient, and secretor plasma Le(b+).
Related resources
Blood Component Information: An Extension of Blood Component Labels
Guide
Information Sheet
Further information
Related topics
