Dynamical changes of basic chemical indicators and significant lipophilic vitamins in caprine colostrum

• Published in: Acta veterinaria Brno Vol. 83; no. 10; pp. S15 - S19
• Main Authors: Hodulová, Lucia, Vorlová, Lenka, Kostrhounová, Romana
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: 01-01-2014
• ISSN: 0001-7213; 1801-7576
• DOI: 10.2754/avb201483S10S15

Colostrum is currently used as a food supplement. It has been sought after by an increasing number of consumers for its unique composition. Its use is supported by EU legislation that defines colostrum as an animal product for human consumption. Therefore, information on its chemical properties and the content of lipophilic vitamins are important when evaluating colostrum quality and safety. The aim of this study was to assess the dynamic changes of basic chemical properties (protein, fat, lactose, and dry matter) and the content of selected lipophilic vitamins (vitamin A and vitamin E) in white short-haired goat’s colostrum. Attention was paid to the first milk from the first hour to the sixth day after parturition as the initial milk composition changes rapidly during this period. Protein, fat, and lactose concentrations were measured by near infrared spectroscopy, vitamins were analysed simultaneously by ultra-high performance liquid chromatography with detection in the ultraviolet part of the spectrum. The most significant changes in chemical indicators occurred during the first three days (
P
≤ 0.01)
post partum
. The highest decrease was observed in protein concentrations. It was × 2 lower than in the first hour
post partum
. The concentration of vitamin A rapidly decreased during 36 h. In the following hours, gradual changes were observed (
P
> 0.05). The analysed components in caprine colostrum were similar to mature milk after 132 h
post partum
.