Why do babies not like frozen breast milk?

Understanding Babies’ Aversion to Frozen Breast Milk
When it comes to feeding, many parents find themselves puzzled by their babies’ preferences, particularly regarding frozen breast milk. While breast milk is often lauded for its nutritional benefits, some infants may reject it after it has been frozen. This phenomenon can be attributed to several factors, primarily related to the composition and sensory characteristics of the milk.
The Role of Lipase
One of the primary reasons babies may turn away from frozen breast milk is the presence of lipase, an enzyme naturally found in human milk. Lipase is responsible for breaking down fats, which is beneficial for digestion. However, when breast milk is frozen, lipase continues to act on the milk, even at low temperatures. This enzymatic activity can lead to the production of free fatty acids, which may impart a soapy or metallic taste to the milk. For some babies, this altered flavor is unappealing, leading them to reject the milk altogether.
Nutritional Integrity and Taste
While frozen breast milk retains most of its nutritional value, it can lose some of its sensory qualities during the freezing and thawing process. The texture and taste may differ from fresh milk, which can be a significant factor for discerning little palates. Babies are particularly sensitive to taste and smell, and any changes in these attributes can influence their willingness to consume the milk.
Moreover, the method of thawing can also affect the milk’s quality. If not done properly, the milk may separate, causing further changes in texture that could deter a baby from drinking it.
Temperature Sensitivity
Another aspect to consider is the temperature of the milk. Some babies may simply prefer their milk warmed, as cold milk can feel different in their mouths and may not be as comforting. While it is safe for babies to consume cold breast milk, the experience can vary from one infant to another. For those who are sensitive to temperature, cold milk might be less appealing.
Practical Solutions
For parents facing this challenge, there are a few strategies that may help. One effective method is to scald the milk before freezing it. This process deactivates lipase, preventing it from altering the milk’s taste during storage. Additionally, ensuring that the milk is thawed gently and warmed to a comfortable temperature can make it more palatable for babies.
In conclusion, while frozen breast milk is a valuable resource for many parents, its acceptance by babies can be influenced by enzymatic changes, sensory characteristics, and temperature preferences. Understanding these factors can help parents navigate the complexities of feeding and ensure their little ones receive the nourishment they need.

How to avoid lipase in breastmilk?

Try the 50/50 approach. Mixing half stored milk with half freshly pumped or expressed milk might satisfy your baby since the soapy or metallic taste will be less strong. Scald your pumped milk. Scalding your breast milk might reduce the flavor and smell changes associated with high lipase breast milk.

Why is fresh breast milk better than frozen?

Fresh breastmilk contains the most active anti-infective properties, followed by refrigerated breastmilk, and then frozen breastmilk.

Does freezing breastmilk affect quality?

Thawed milk is an excellent alternative when fresh breast milk isn’t available. Previously frozen breast milk has similar nutrient and antibody content to fresh milk. It does lose a small amount of those qualities but can still provide a baby with the nutrition it needs.

Why is my baby rejecting my frozen breast milk?

Background: Infant refusal to feed previously frozen human milk is thought possibly attributable to lipase, an enzyme that cleaves fatty acids from milk triglycerides potentially changing the taste of the milk.

Does frozen breast milk taste different to babies?

This study revealed that the human breastmilk develops a rancid flavor during frozen storage. Therefore, we recommend that when infants refuse thawed milk, mothers can try to provide freshly expressed milk whenever possible or provide breastmilk frozen for less than 7 days.

Is frozen breast milk bad for baby?

The temperature of kitchen freezers is typically 0° F. Deep freezers and chest freezers may be colder than 0°F. Breast milk can be stored at 0° F or colder for up to 12 months, although using it within 6 months is best. Count the age of the milk from the first time it was frozen, regardless of when it was moved.

How do I introduce frozen breast milk to my baby?

If you put your frozen breast milk in the refrigerator to thaw, use it within 24 hours. If you use warm or lukewarm water to thaw your milk, feed it to your baby within two hours.

Is frozen breastmilk or formula better?

Breast milk is better for your baby than formula – but freshly expressed breast milk is preferable to refrigerated, and refrigerated is better than frozen.

What are the cons of freezing milk?

Frozen and defrosted milk is best suited for cooking, baking, or making smoothies. It may undergo some changes in texture that make it unpleasant to use as a beverage. These include being slushy, grainy, or having some fat separation. However, it’s safe to drink if it was stored and defrosted properly.

How do I get my baby to drink frozen breast milk?

Mix frozen breastmilk with freshly pumped milk.
You can try mixing the frozen milk with freshly pumped milk to see if they will drink it. This blend can help mask the soapy taste. Finding out your breastmilk has high lipase can be disheartening, especially if you already have a freezer full of stored milk.