Effect of breed, parity and stage of lactation on milk composition of western region goats of India

Abstract

Variations in daily milk yield, composition, pH and titrable acidity and stage of lactation were studied at fortnightly interval from 7th day after kidding up to 90 days of lactation in Sirohi, Marwari, Kutchi and Jakhrana breeds. The milk yield was maximum (p<0.01) in Jakhrana (0.770 L day -1) and lowest (0.500 L day-1) in Marwari breed. Similar trend was observed for fat content. Milk pH was higher (p<0.01) in Sirohi (6.64), followed by Jakhrana, Marwari and Kutchi. The Kutchi milk having lowest pH, had higher (p<0.01) titrable acidity. No significant difference was observed in other milk constituents. Parity had significant (p<0.01) effect on milk yield and milk pH. Animals in parity 2 and 5 yielded higher milk per day. As parity advanced, milk pH increased. Rest of the milk traits remained unaffected due to parity of the animals. In week 2 of lactation, highest milk yield was recorded and with progress of lactation period steady increase in fat content and pH was recorded but casein content declined. Though the TS content was more (p<0.01) in last stages of lactation, SNF, ash and TA remained unaffected. © 2007 Academic Journals.