Winton Eliott
If you’ve ever taken a swig of spoiled milk, only to immediately regret it, then this article is for you. We’ll explore the science behind why milk goes bad—and why our stomachs have such an adverse reaction to it.
So next time you’re faced with a carton of questionable dairy, consider reading this first.
What happens if you drink spoiled milk?
First and foremost, it’s important to note that drinking spoiled milk does not come with any serious short-term health risks. In fact, most people who drink spoiled milk don’t even realize it until after the fact.
That being said, there are a few potential side effects that can occur:
Nausea
This is by far the most common side effect associated with drinking spoiled milk.
Milk is a rich source of lactose, which is a type of sugar that can be difficult for our bodies to digest.
When milk goes bad, the lactose is broken down into simpler sugars like glucose and galactose.
These sugars are more easily absorbed by our intestines, but they also stimulate the release of water and electrolytes, which can lead to nausea
Vomiting
In some cases, drinking spoiled milk can cause vomiting. This is likely due to the fact that milk is a rich source of nutrients, and when it goes bad, those nutrients are no longer present.
When our bodies can’t get the nutrients they need, they may try to expel the milk.
Diarrhea
Another common side effect of drinking spoiled milk is diarrhea. This is again due to the fact that milk is a rich source of nutrients, and when it goes bad, those nutrients are no longer present.
When our bodies can’t get the nutrients they need, they may try to expel the milk.
Cramps
Drinking spoiled milk can also lead to cramps. This is likely due to the fact that milk is a rich source of lactose, which is a type of sugar that can be difficult for our bodies to digest.
When milk goes bad, the lactose is broken down into simpler sugars like glucose and galactose. These sugars are more easily absorbed by our intestines, but they can also lead to cramps.
Read also: What Happens When You Eat Mold
What should I do if I drank spoiled milk?
If you’ve consumed spoiled milk, it’s important to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids. You should also avoid dairy products for a few days. In most cases, the symptoms will resolve on their own.
However, if you’re concerned or the symptoms persist, it’s always best to consult with a doctor.
Symptoms of spoiled milk include nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, and diarrhea. If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek medical help immediately.
What to do if a child drinks spoiled milk?
If a child drinks spoiled milk, it’s important to seek medical help immediately. Symptoms of spoiled milk poisoning in children include vomiting, diarrhea, dehydration, and low blood sugar.
If your child is experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to call their pediatrician or take them to the emergency room right away.
While most cases of spoilage are not harmful, some can lead to serious illness, so it’s always better to err on the side of caution.
Treatment for spoiled milk poisoning will vary depending on the severity of the symptoms but may include rehydration, IV fluids, and medication for nausea and vomiting. In severe cases, hospitalization may be necessary.
Read also: What Happens if You Have Too Much Protein
How can you tell if milk is spoiled?
There are a few signs that can indicate whether or not milk has gone bad. These include:
- The milk is lumpy or thick
- The milk has changed colors
- The milk has a sour smell
- The milk has a clumpy texture
If you notice any of these signs, it’s best to err on the side of caution and throw the milk away.
What is the difference between sour milk and spoiled milk?
Sour milk and spoiled milk may seem like the same thing, but there is actually a big difference between the two.
Sour milk is milk that has been intentionally soured with an acid, such as vinegar or lemon juice. This type of milk is safe to consume.
Spoiled milk, on the other hand, is milk that has gone bad and is no longer safe to consume. Spoiled milk typically has a sour smell and a clumpy texture.
Spoiled milk can cause nausea and vomiting, so it’s important to be able to tell the difference between sour milk and spoiled milk.
To be on the safe side, always check the expiration date before consuming any type of dairy product.
Read also: What Happens if You Swallow Gum
The takeaway
It is generally not considered safe to drink spoiled milk. Milk that has been left out of the fridge for an extended period of time will develop bacteria that can cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
In addition, the milk will have an unpleasant taste and smell.
While some people may be able to tolerate drinking spoiled milk without experiencing any ill effects, it is generally best to err on the side of caution and avoid consuming milk that has been left out for too long.
