Why does frozen breastmilk taste different?

Understanding the Taste of Frozen Breast Milk
Frozen breast milk is often lauded for its nutritional benefits, but many parents report that it tastes different once thawed. This change in flavor can be attributed to several factors, primarily involving the biochemical processes that occur during freezing and storage.
The Role of Lipase
One of the key culprits behind the altered taste of frozen breast milk is an enzyme called lipase. Lipase is naturally present in breast milk and plays a crucial role in breaking down fats, making them easier for infants to digest. However, when breast milk is stored, especially if it is kept at room temperature or in the refrigerator before freezing, lipase can become more active. This increased activity can lead to the development of a soapy or rancid flavor in the milk, which some parents describe as sour or metallic once thawed .
Storage Conditions Matter
The conditions under which breast milk is stored significantly impact its taste. If breast milk is frozen immediately after pumping, it is less likely to develop off-flavors compared to milk that has been left out for a while before freezing. The longer the milk is exposed to warmer temperatures, the more lipase can act on the fats, leading to undesirable flavors.
Variability Among Individuals
It’s important to note that the amount of lipase varies from person to person. Some mothers may have higher levels of this enzyme in their milk, which can result in a more pronounced change in taste after freezing. This variability means that while some parents may find their frozen milk tastes fine, others may encounter significant flavor changes.
Perception of Taste
Interestingly, the perception of breast milk’s taste can also be subjective. Adults who have tasted breast milk often describe it as sweet and creamy, but this perception can shift dramatically when the milk is frozen and thawed. The introduction of rancid or sour notes can lead to concerns about the milk’s safety, even though these changes are typically harmless to infants.
Conclusion
In summary, the difference in taste of frozen breast milk is primarily due to the activity of lipase, which can alter the flavor profile during storage. Factors such as storage conditions and individual variations in lipase levels play significant roles in this phenomenon. For parents navigating the challenges of feeding their infants with frozen breast milk, understanding these factors can help manage expectations and ensure that their babies receive the best nutrition possible.

How to tell if milk has high lipase?

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.

What are the disadvantages of freezing 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.

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.

Why won’t my baby drink my frozen breast milk?

High lipase in stored milk is to blame!
Babies will often take parents by surprise when they refuse previously frozen milk but drink freshly pumped without an issue.

Why does freezing change taste?

Chemical changes during freezing
Fresh produce contains chemical compounds called enzymes, which cause the loss of color, loss of nutrients, flavor changes, and color changes in frozen fruits and vegetables.

Does freezing breast milk change taste?

Understanding High Lipase in Breastmilk: Causes of Soapy or Metallic Tasting Breastmilk. 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.

Why does milk taste weird after being frozen?

Microbial Growth: If the milk was not fresh before freezing, any existing bacteria may continue to grow during the freezing process, particularly if the milk was not frozen quickly enough or if it thawed too slowly. This can lead to spoilage and unpleasant tastes.

How long does it take for breast milk to go bad in the freezer?

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. Moving frozen breast milk between freezer locations should be done quickly to ensure that the milk stays frozen.

Can babies drink high lipase milk?

Many babies don’t reject high lipase milk, but what should you do If you suspect that your baby does have a harder time drinking it because of the smell or taste? Try mixing it with some freshly pumped or expressed milk.

How do you get the bad taste out of frozen breast milk?

You might try a few drops of non alcoholic vanilla extract in the milk. It worked to cover weird tastes from food I ate and high lipase. If that doesn’t work, you can always use the milk in things like pancakes or purées.