Why does frozen breast milk smell different than fresh?

Understanding the Distinct Smell of Frozen Breast Milk
Breast milk is often praised for its nutritional benefits, but many mothers notice a significant difference in smell between fresh and frozen breast milk. This phenomenon can be attributed primarily to the presence of an enzyme called lipase, which plays a crucial role in the milk’s composition and odor.
The Role of Lipase
Lipase is a natural enzyme found in all breast milk that helps break down fats into smaller, more digestible particles for infants. While this enzyme is beneficial for digestion, it can also lead to changes in the milk’s smell when it is frozen and later thawed. When breast milk is freshly expressed, it typically has a mild, sweet aroma. However, upon freezing, lipase continues to act on the milk fats, even at low temperatures. This enzymatic activity can result in the production of free fatty acids, which often emit a soapy or rancid odor when the milk is thawed .
Variability Among Mothers
Not all mothers experience the same changes in smell with their frozen breast milk. Some may have higher levels of lipase, which can lead to more pronounced odors. For these mothers, the thawed milk might smell distinctly soapy or even metallic, despite being perfectly safe for their babies to consume. This variability can be surprising, especially for those who have followed proper storage guidelines and ensured that their milk was fresh when frozen.
Preventive Measures
To mitigate the development of these odors, some mothers choose to scald their milk before freezing it. Scalding involves heating the milk to a temperature that deactivates lipase, thereby preventing it from breaking down fats and altering the milk’s smell. However, this method does come with trade-offs, as it can reduce some of the beneficial components in breast milk. Therefore, while scalding can help maintain a fresher scent, it is not always the preferred option for all mothers.
Conclusion
In summary, the difference in smell between fresh and frozen breast milk primarily stems from the activity of lipase, which continues to break down fats even when the milk is frozen. This enzymatic action can lead to the development of odors that some mothers find concerning, but it is important to note that these changes do not indicate spoilage. Understanding this process can help mothers navigate the complexities of breast milk storage and ensure their infants receive the best nutrition possible.

What happens if a baby drinks bad breast milk?

Can babies get sick from old 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.

Does breast milk change when frozen?

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. The key is to freeze and thaw breast milk in ways that preserve its nutritional value.

How can you tell if frozen breast milk has gone bad?

Digestive enzymes and other components of breastmilk remain active even when milk is expressed or pumped. Expressed human milk may undergo odor changes when stored. Parents sometimes describe expressed or defrosted milk as smelling odd – metallic, soapy, or even rancid.

What is the 120 pumping rule?

The first 12 weeks of your breastfeeding journey requires frequent breastmilk removal, stimulating healthy milk production. Studies show moms who exclusively pump for a minimum of 120 minutes per day can make enough to feed their babies primarily breastmilk.

Does breast milk smell different after freezing?

Freezing and thawing breast milk can have a big impact on taste and smell. Some moms notice that after defrosting, their milk smells unpleasant – soapy or even sour. This is normal! Breast milk contains lipase, an enzyme that is normally present in human milk and has a lot of benefits.

How to tell if breast milk has freezer burn?

If you store breast milk in the freezer as you should, you may have noticed ice crystals forming in the milk. When you thaw it, you catch a whiff of a sour odor. Does this mean the milk has gone bad? No, this is just the sign of freezer burn in your breast milk.

What is the 5 5 5 rule for breast milk?

Something I recommend to moms is the 5-5-5 rule. Try and use milk within five hours at room temperature, five days in the fridge, and by five months in the freezer.

Can babies drink cold breast milk?

Breast milk does not need to be warmed. It can be served room temperature or cold.

Can my baby drink high lipase milk?

WHAT CAN I do about it? First thing’s first, having high lipase milk does not mean your milk is “bad”! Some babies take high lipase milk without thought. Yes, it is perfectly safe for babies to drink high lipase milk.

What does spoiled breast milk smell like?

If your milk smells “sour” or “rancid” this can be from oxidation. These changes may occur shortly after the milk is expressed, or it may occur after the expressed milk is frozen and then defrosted.