Summary
This comparative analysis characterised the milk fat globule structure, fatty acid profiles, and proteome of human colostrum and mature milk against goat and sheep milk to inform infant formula development. Human colostrum was notably high in unsaturated fatty acids (70.04%) and enriched in glycolysis-related and antigen-presenting proteins, whilst small ruminant milks contained higher saturated fatty acid proportions (57.07–77.77%) and distinct MFGM protein signatures. The findings suggest that small ruminant milk may serve as an alternative source for infant nutrition, with implications for personalised formula improvement.
Regional applicability
The study does not specify geographic origin of milk samples or focus on United Kingdom practice. The findings are potentially applicable to infant nutrition science globally, including the UK, where goat and sheep milk-based infant formulas are marketed as alternatives; however, transferability depends on whether milk composition varies meaningfully by production system or geography.
Key measures
Milk fat globule particle size; fatty acid composition and proportions; milk fat globule membrane proteome (1,658 proteins identified); abundance of glycolysis-related proteins, antigen-presenting proteins, and antioxidant-related proteins
Outcomes reported
The study compared milk fat globule particle size, fatty acid composition, and milk fat globule membrane proteome across human (colostrum and mature milk) and small ruminant (goat and sheep) milks. Analysis identified 1,658 MFGM proteins and characterised differential fatty acid and protein profiles between milk types.
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