Why does my expressed breast milk smell sour?

Understanding the Sour Smell of Expressed Breast Milk
For many breastfeeding mothers, the experience of expressing milk is often accompanied by a range of sensory observations, including the smell of the milk. While breast milk is typically described as sweet or neutral, some mothers notice a sour odor that can be concerning. Understanding the reasons behind this phenomenon can help alleviate worries and ensure that both mother and baby are healthy.
The Role of Lipase
One of the primary culprits behind the sour smell in expressed breast milk is lipase, an enzyme naturally present in human milk. Lipase plays a crucial role in breaking down fats, making the milk easier for infants to digest. However, in some cases, particularly when milk is stored for extended periods, lipase can continue to act on the milk even after it has been expressed and refrigerated or frozen. This enzymatic activity can lead to the release of fatty acids, which may produce a smell that some mothers describe as soapy or sour.
Interestingly, the presence of high levels of lipase does not indicate that the milk is spoiled or unsafe for the baby. Most infants are unfazed by the altered smell and taste, but if a baby begins to refuse the milk, it may be worth considering the storage methods or the timing of expression.
Spoilage vs. Lipase Activity
It’s essential to differentiate between milk that has soured due to lipase activity and milk that has genuinely spoiled. Spoiled breast milk typically has a distinctly unpleasant odor, similar to that of soured cow’s milk, and is a sign that it should not be consumed. This spoilage often results from improper storage, such as leaving milk at room temperature for too long or failing to refrigerate it promptly.
To ensure the freshness of expressed milk, mothers should adhere to recommended storage guidelines. Freshly expressed breast milk can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days, while frozen milk can last for several months. However, once thawed, it should be used within 24 hours.
Managing the Sour Smell
If a mother finds that her expressed milk consistently smells sour due to high lipase levels, there are a few strategies she can employ. One effective method is to scald the milk before storing it. This process involves heating the milk to just below boiling, which inactivates the lipase enzyme and can help preserve the milk’s fresh smell.
Additionally, mothers can experiment with different storage techniques, such as using glass containers or ensuring that the milk is cooled quickly after expression to minimize enzyme activity.
Conclusion
In summary, a sour smell in expressed breast milk can often be attributed to the activity of lipase, which is a natural and beneficial component of the milk. While this change in odor can be alarming, it is usually harmless and does not indicate spoilage. By understanding the factors that contribute to this phenomenon and implementing proper storage techniques, mothers can continue to provide their babies with the nutritional benefits of breast milk without unnecessary worry.

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.

Is it normal for breast milk to smell sour?

Your milk may have excess lipase in it, which can cause stored breastmilk to smell sour or soapy. Lipase is a beneficial enzyme found in breast milk that helps break down milk fat. If your breastmilk has excess lipase, the longer the milk is stored, the stronger the smell becomes.

Why does my breast smell sour?

While sweat itself doesn’t smell, you may develop body odor when there is the presence of bacteria on your skin. This is particularly why sweaty breasts smell sour or musky. Body odor comes from bacteria on the skin, which breaks down sweat produced by the apocrine glands.

How can you tell the difference between sour milk and spoiled milk?

The best way to tell the difference is with your nose. If the milk does not have a bad smell then you can still use it. Sour milk is still safe for consumption but you’ll want to use it in different ways than normal.

Can breast milk get sour in the breast?

Results: The transition from colostrum to mature milk was accompanied by changes in the taste of the milk, such as decreased saltiness and umami and increased bitterness and sourness. Umami and saltiness increased in milk from inflamed breasts.

Why does my breast milk smell funny in the fridge?

Some mums notice that their expressed milk has an ‘off’ or soapy smell and taste, even when they have handled it cleanly. This can be caused by oxidation following the normal action of enzymes in the milk designed to help the baby digest the milk fats.

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.

Is it OK if milk smells a little sour?

Smell: If milk has a bad smell, it may indicate spoilage. Fresh milk should have a mild, pleasant aroma. A sour or off smell usually means that bacteria have started to grow, and it’s best not to consume it.

Does high lipase milk smell?

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.

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.