Can breast milk be sour while breastfeeding?

Understanding Sour Breast Milk During Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is a natural and vital process for both mothers and infants, providing essential nutrients and fostering a strong bond. However, some mothers may notice that their breast milk can sometimes have a sour or unusual taste or smell. This phenomenon raises questions about the quality and safety of the milk being provided to their babies.
Why Does Breast Milk Taste Sour?
Breast milk itself does not spoil while it is inside the breast. According to experts, milk remains fresh and safe for the baby as long as it is produced and stored correctly within the body. However, there are several factors that can contribute to a sour taste or smell when the milk is expressed or stored.
1. Dietary Influences: The mother’s diet can significantly affect the flavor of her breast milk. Certain foods, particularly those that are spicy or acidic, can impart a different taste to the milk. This change is usually harmless and may even be beneficial, as it can help the baby become accustomed to various flavors.
2. Mastitis and Other Conditions: In some cases, a sour taste may be linked to underlying health issues such as mastitis, an infection of the breast tissue. Research indicates that mastitis can alter the composition of breast milk, leading to increased bitterness and sourness. If a mother experiences symptoms of mastitis, such as pain, swelling, or fever, it is crucial to seek medical advice.
3. Storage and Handling: The way breast milk is expressed, stored, and handled can also affect its taste. If milk is not stored properly, it may develop off-flavors. For instance, breast milk should be stored in clean, airtight containers and kept at appropriate temperatures to maintain its quality.
Is Sour Breast Milk Safe for the Baby?
While a sour taste may be concerning for mothers, it is important to note that breast milk does not become harmful simply because it tastes different. The body’s natural processes ensure that milk remains safe while it is still in the breast. However, if expressed milk has a sour smell or taste, it is advisable to check for signs of spoilage, especially if it has been stored for an extended period. Freshly expressed milk can typically be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days, while frozen milk can last much longer.
Conclusion
In summary, while breast milk can sometimes taste sour due to dietary choices, health conditions like mastitis, or improper storage, it generally remains safe for infants. Mothers should monitor their health and the quality of their milk, and consult healthcare professionals if they have concerns about changes in taste or smell. Understanding these factors can help mothers navigate the breastfeeding journey with confidence and peace of mind.

Why does my breastmilk taste sour?

If your milk tastes/smells sour or rancid rather than soapy, the cause may be chemical oxidation rather than lipase (Mohrbacher, p. 461). Mom’s intake of polyunsaturated fats may be involved, or free copper or iron ions in her water.

Why do I have sour breast?

Women who are having periods or taking Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) often have breast soreness. This happens when the tissue in their breasts responds to hormones. The most common hormonal breast soreness comes from an increase in the level of oestrogen before a period.

What does breast milk that’s gone bad taste like?

As the breastmilk sits in cool temperatures (fridge or freezer), the lipase starts to break down the fat in the milk. The longer it sits, the more you may start to notice the soapy or metallic smell/taste.

What does it mean if milk tastes sour?

Signs your milk has spoiled
The taste also begins to change, as the natural sweetness of fresh milk is quickly replaced by a somewhat acidic or sour flavor. With enough time, the texture and color of milk that has spoiled will change as well. It may begin to develop a slimy, chunky texture and dingy, yellow color.

Can breast milk become sour in the breast?

No, breast milk doesn’t spoil inside the breast. It’s produced on demand and maintains its freshness. However, once expressed, it can spoil if not stored properly.

How to tell the difference between high lipase milk and spoiled milk?

High lipase milk has an odor that some people describe as metallic, soapy, or even fishy. The taste might be very different from the smell, or it might also taste bad depending on the severity. If the milk smells rancid or spoiled, that might be a different problem.

What happens if my baby drinks sour breast milk?

If your baby has had spoiled breast milk, they’ll likely let you know. They may throw up, or have an upset stomach, diarrhea or fever. It’s important to call your pediatrician if you think your baby may be sick from having spoiled breast milk.

How to know if breastmilk is spoiled?

It will also smell bad, much like spoiled cow’s milk. And, like spoiled cow’s milk, breast milk that’s old will taste sour. (It’s fine to taste your breast milk to check!) Always label your pumped milk with a time and date so you can tell how old it is.

How do you get rid of sour breast milk?

The milk continues to have a sour taste. What can I do now? Heating up breast milk is only recommended when the lipase it contains transfers a sour taste, and this is why your baby rejects it. Place the milk in a pan and turn on the heat.

Is sour breast milk safe?

Human milk that has truly soured has a very distinct sour taste and odor – much like soured cow’s milk. If your milk doesn’t smell distinctly sour or rancid, then it should be safe to give to your baby.