1.5 Factors Affecting Composition of Milk

• Milk composition is influenced by biological, environmental, and management factors.
• These determine water, fat, protein, lactose, and mineral proportions.
• Optimizing these factors improves milk quality, processing, and nutrition.

1.5.1 Species

• Milk composition varies by species based on offspring needs.
• • Buffalo milk: High fat (7–8.5%), high total solids – energy dense.
• • Horse milk: Low fat (1–2%), high lactose (6–6.5%) – easily digestible.

1.5.2 Breed

• Breed differences exist within species.
• • Jersey cow: High fat (5–6%) and protein.
• • Holstein-Friesian: Moderate fat (3.5–4%).
• Genetics influence metabolism and milk synthesis.

1.5.3 Stage of Lactation

• • Colostrum: High protein, fat, minerals; low lactose.
• • Transitional milk: Increasing lactose, decreasing protein.
• • Mid-lactation: Stable composition.
• • Late lactation: Increased solids, reduced yield.

1.5.4 Diet and Nutrition

• • Energy-rich diets increase milk fat.
• • Protein-rich feeds enhance milk protein.
• • Poor nutrition lowers milk solids and quality.
• • Green fodder and minerals improve vitamins and minerals.

1.5.5 Age and Parity

• • Young animals: Higher solids and better composition.
• • Advanced age/multiple lactations: Slight decline in fat and protein.
• Proper nutrition minimizes negative effects.

1.5.6 Health and Disease

• • Mastitis reduces lactose and increases salts.
• • Alters milk taste and stability.
• Healthy animals produce better quality milk.
• Veterinary care is essential.

1.5.7 Environmental Factors

• • Heat stress lowers milk yield and fat/protein.
• • Stress diverts energy from milk synthesis.
• Comfort, shade, and hydration maintain composition.

1.5.8 Milking Frequency and Technique

• • Frequent milking may slightly reduce fat concentration.
• • Strippings contain more fat.
• • Complete milking ensures full fat recovery.

1.5.9 Season

• • Spring/early summer: Higher fat and protein due to fresh pasture.
• • Winter/dry season: Reduced SNF and yield.
• Season affects feed and stress levels.

1.5.10 Genetics

• • Individual genes influence fat, protein, and casein synthesis.
• • Selective breeding improves milk quality and disease resistance.