What does breastmilk lose when frozen?

The Impact of Freezing on Breastmilk
Breastmilk is often hailed as the optimal source of nutrition for infants, rich in essential nutrients, antibodies, and enzymes. However, when it comes to freezing breastmilk for later use, there are notable changes that occur, particularly in its nutritional composition and quality.
Nutritional Changes
One of the primary concerns with freezing breastmilk is the loss of certain nutrients. Research indicates that while the overall nutritional value remains relatively intact, there are some reductions in specific components. For instance, the antioxidant activity of breastmilk diminishes during freezing. Studies have shown that both refrigerated and frozen breastmilk experience a decrease in antioxidant levels, which are crucial for protecting infants from oxidative stress.
Additionally, while the macronutrient content—such as fats, proteins, and carbohydrates—remains largely stable, there can be slight variations in the fatty acid profile. Some studies suggest that the freezing process may lead to the peroxidation of fatty acids, which can affect the quality of the milk. However, the extent of these changes is generally not significant enough to warrant concern for most parents.
Flavor and Quality
Another aspect to consider is the flavor of frozen breastmilk. Over time, frozen breastmilk can develop a rancid flavor due to the breakdown of fats, which may lead to feeding difficulties for infants. This change in flavor can be distressing for both the baby and the mother, as it raises concerns about the milk’s quality. Despite this, many experts agree that the nutritional benefits still outweigh the potential downsides of flavor changes.
Storage Guidelines
To mitigate the loss of nutrients and maintain the quality of breastmilk, proper storage techniques are essential. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that breastmilk be stored in clean, airtight containers and frozen at temperatures below -20°C. It is also advised not to fill containers to the brim, as breastmilk expands when frozen, which can lead to spills.
Conclusion
In summary, while freezing breastmilk does result in some loss of nutrients, particularly antioxidants and potential changes in flavor, the overall nutritional integrity remains largely intact. For mothers looking to store breastmilk, adhering to proper storage guidelines can help preserve its quality, ensuring that their infants continue to receive the benefits of this vital source of nutrition.

How does breastmilk change when frozen?

Freezing breastmilk gives rise to a series of physical changes in its principal components such as rupture of the fat globule membranes and alteration of casein micelles.

What are the disadvantages of frozen breast milk?

Some of the immune enhancing properties of breastmilk are decreased over time when milk is frozen. However, the risk of bacterial contamination of milk that has been kept in the refrigerator too long and not frozen, far outweighs the downside of freezing milk.

Does breast milk lose antibodies when frozen?

Are the antibodies still there if the milk has been frozen? There would be a slight decline in antibodies from a single thawing of frozen milk, Powell told me, but not enough to concern her.

Does freezing milk ruin nutrients?

People can freeze most milk, including breast milk or human milk. Frozen milk retains its nutritional profile when it thaws, and the sooner someone freezes it, the better the milk quality after thawing. The enzymes and fat-soluble vitamins it contains may decrease very slightly but largely remain the same.

What nutrients are lost in frozen breast milk?

Based on a few studies with very small samples sizes, vitamin E appears stable in frozen milk over time, and vitamin C levels decrease significantly after 1–5 months of storage. There is a paucity of research on how freezer storage affects nearly all vitamins and minerals in human milk.

Can bacteria grow in frozen breast milk?

Results: Significant declines in bacterial colony counts were seen from 2 to 12 weeks freezer storage for all bacteria. There were no differences in colony counts between freezer types. Once thawed, no further bacterial growth occurred. Conclusions: Short-term freezer storage for 12 weeks resulted bacterial killing.

What does freezing do to breastmilk?

Freezing breastmilk gives rise to a series of physical changes in its principal components such as rupture of the fat globule membranes and alteration of casein micelles.

What does high lipase milk smell like?

The most notable signs of high lipase milk are changes in taste and smell. You might notice your milk having a scent or taste similar to metallic, vomit, eggs, soap, or fishy. The appearance of the milk might also change, though this isn’t always the case.

Does breastmilk lose volume when frozen?

Breast milk expands as it freezes, so do not fill the storage container all the way to the top. To thaw breast milk, put the bottle or bag in the refrigerator overnight, hold it under warm running water, or set it in a container of warm water.

What food value is missing in breast milk?

Vitamins and minerals
Although HBM is influenced by the diet in lactating women, in most cases, it contains enough vitamins to ensure normal growth of the infant [15]. However, vitamins D and K may be insufficient in infants who are exclusively breastfeeding and may require supplementation.