What Does Spoiled Breast Milk Smell Like?

Just like any other kind of milk, breast milk can spoil too.

But what does spoiled breast milk actually smell like?  Let’s find out!

 
 

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What does spoiled breast milk smell like?

The nose knows. 🥛👃

The way your milk smells is one of the first signs that it might have gone bad. So, if you catch a whiff of something off, it's a clue that your breast milk might not be at its best.

If you immediately recoil when you smell the milk, it's likely gone bad. Trust your sniffer!

Fresh breast milk is pretty low-key in the smell department. Honestly, there's usually hardly any noticeable odor, and if there is, it's usually on the pleasant side.

But when it goes bad, oh boy, does it let you know! Spoiled milk doesn't hold back – it has a much stronger and off-putting smell.  It gets seriously strong and funky-smelling. (kind of like a sharp and sour, rancid stench) 

That distinct and strong odor is hard to miss because when breast milk starts to spoil, bacteria in it go to town on the lactose, and that process is what gives off that unmistakable stink. Yep, blame it on the bacteria party! 🎉🤢

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Stacey Stewart, C.L.E

Meet Stacey, the founder and creative force behind Milkology. As a mom of three, she gets how confusing and overwhelming breastfeeding can be. Her mission? To modernize lactation education — so moms all around the world can turn nursing woes into wins.♡
KNOWLEDGE IS POWER!

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Q&A: What Does Breast Milk SMELL Like?