How do i know when breastmilk is bad?

[EthansMama]

Whether in the fridge, freezer or bottle, how do i know when breastmilk has soured or gone bad?

[KerrySmithIBCLC]

When breastmilk goes bad, it takes on a VERY distinctive sour milk smell, similar to when cow's milk goes sour. This smell should not be confused with a soapy, "off" smell/taste, which is caused by lipase in the mother's milk and is NOT bad or harmful.

Generally, as long as you follow proper storage and handling guidelines, your milk will not go bad. It contains antibodies that help protect it from bacterial contamination. Here is a link to storage/handling guidelines, and also addresses "bad" or soured milk:

http://www.breastfeed-essentials.com/storagehandling.html