Has your stored breast milk developed a soapy, metallic, or rancid smell? You might be dealing with high lipase activity. Let’s break down what this means and how to work with it – because this common situation doesn’t mean your milk has “gone bad.”
What is Lipase?
Lipase is a natural enzyme in breast milk that breaks down fats to help baby digest the milk. Some parents produce milk with higher lipase activity, which can cause stored milk to develop an unusual taste or smell more quickly than expected.
Important Note: High lipase milk is completely safe for your baby! The change in taste doesn’t affect the nutritional value of your milk.
Signs of High Lipase:
Fresh Milk:
- Tastes and smells normal
- Baby nurses directly without issue
Stored Milk:
- Develops soapy smell/taste
- May have metallic flavor
- Can taste rancid
- Changes occur within hours to days
- Baby may refuse bottle
Testing Your Milk:
Before building a large freezer stash, try this:
- Express fresh milk
- Store a small amount in refrigerator
- Taste test at different intervals:
- Fresh
- After 24 hours
- After 48 hours
- Note when taste changes occur
Working With High Lipase:
Prevention Methods:
- Scalding Fresh Milk
- Heat until tiny bubbles form (180°F)
- Cool quickly
- Store as usual
- Must be done before storing
- Shorter Storage Times
- Use milk before taste changes
- Label milk with expression date/time
- Rotate stock frequently
If Baby Refuses Stored Milk:
Try These Strategies:
- Mix with Fresh Milk
- Start with mostly fresh
- Gradually increase stored milk
- Find acceptable ratio
- Adjust Temperature
- Try different serving temperatures
- Some babies prefer it warmer
- Others might take it colder
Storage Tips:
For Fresh Milk:
- Label with date AND time
- Store in small portions
- Use oldest milk first
- Monitor temperature changes
For Scalded Milk:
- Cool completely before storing
- Label as “scalded”
- Follow normal storage guidelines
- Use within recommended timeframes
Equipment Needed for Scalding:
Basic Setup:
- Thermometer
- Stainless steel pan
- Ice bath setup
- Storage containers
When to Seek Help:
Contact a Lactation Consultant If:
- Baby consistently refuses bottles
- Mixing strategies aren’t working
- Need help with scalding technique
- Storage questions arise
The Bottom Line:
Remember:
- High lipase is normal
- Milk is safe for baby
- Solutions are available
- You’re not alone
Our resident lactation consultant, Sabrina Barber, is here to help you navigate any challenges you encounter. Attend our monthly Breast & Bottle Feeding membership events OR book a virtual consult with her here.
