Summary
This analytical study characterised the compositional quality of colostrum from Sarda dairy sheep, identifying notably high concentrations of immunologically and developmentally important compounds including immunoglobulin G (40 ± 20 g dm−3), essential trace minerals (selenium 200 µg kg−1, zinc 25,000 µg kg−1, copper 1200 µg kg−1), and long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids compared to mature milk. A strong positive correlation (r = 0.91) between total protein and IgG concentration was observed, potentially offering a practical proxy for colostrum quality assessment in sheep dairy systems.
UK applicability
The study examined Mediterranean dairy sheep breeds (Sarda) under Italian management conditions; direct applicability to UK sheep dairy systems would require validation as breed genetics, forage quality, supplementation practices, and climate differ substantially. However, the methodological approach and correlations between protein and immunoglobulin content may inform quality assurance protocols for colostrum management in UK sheep dairy operations.
Key measures
Fat concentration (%), protein concentration (%), immunoglobulin G (g dm−3), antioxidant capacity (ABTS assay), selenium/zinc/copper concentrations (µg kg−1), fatty acid profiles (medium and long-chain fatty acids including arachidonic acid, EPA, DPA, DHA)
Outcomes reported
The study characterised the macro and micronutrient composition of colostrum from Sarda dairy sheep, measuring fat, protein, immunoglobulin G, antioxidant capacity, fatty acid profiles, and essential and toxic mineral concentrations. Findings were compared between colostrum and mature milk samples collected from eight sheep dairy farms in northern Sardinia.
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