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Milk Composition and Biosynthesis- Anatomy & Physiology (view source)
Revision as of 09:36, 8 July 2008
, 09:36, 8 July 2008→'''Milk Composition'''
== '''Milk Composition''' ==
== Introduction ==
Milk is the characteristic secretion of the mammary gland and serves for nourishment of the young. The first milk after parturition, the colostrum, has a high antibody content, which provides the newborn with passive immunity. Because of its composition, milk of ruminants, especially of cows, is an important component of human food.
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== Colostrum ==
* The milk produced in the first few days after birth. It is especially rich in protein, vitamin A and fat to enhance chances of survival of the neonate. It contains less potassium and lactose than milk.
** The extra protein is mainly immunoglobulins. These are especially important in species where antibodies cannot cross the placenta. They convey passive immunity, as they can be absorbed from the duodenum in the early neonatal period without being digested.
** Vitamin A imparts the yellow colour to colostrum, it is elevated in colostrum as it is required for growth and differentiation.
** Fat is important for energy generation and thermal insulation.
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== Milk Composition ==
* In the '''Mare''', a measurement of '''calcium carbonate''' in mammary secretions can aid prediction of foaling onset. If >200ppm, 51% of late pregnant mares will foal in 24 hours and 97% in 72 hours. If <200ppm, 99% will not foal in the next 24 hours.
* In the '''Mare''', a measurement of '''calcium carbonate''' in mammary secretions can aid prediction of foaling onset. If >200ppm, 51% of late pregnant mares will foal in 24 hours and 97% in 72 hours. If <200ppm, 99% will not foal in the next 24 hours.
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