Summary
This narrative review synthesises evidence on the fatty acid composition of milk across animal species, emphasising the role of omega-3 and omega-6 PUFAs in human metabolism and brain function. The authors highlight that animal feeding and rearing systems are primary drivers of milk fat composition variation, and present findings from animal model studies supporting potential health benefits. The review discusses transferability limitations of animal model findings to human nutrition.
Regional applicability
The review's findings on how rearing and feeding systems affect milk quality are relevant to United Kingdom dairy farming and nutritional guidance. However, as an international review without UK-specific data collection, its applicability depends on alignment of UK farming practices with the systems discussed; the authors note limitations in translating animal model results to human health outcomes.
Key measures
Omega-3 and omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) profiles in milk; metabolic and central nervous system outcomes in animal models
Outcomes reported
The review examined fatty acid composition of milk from ruminant and non-ruminant species, with particular focus on omega-3 and omega-6 PUFAs and their metabolic and neurological effects. It assessed how animal feeding, rearing and management systems influence milk fat composition and potential human health impacts.
Topic tags
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