Nutritional Aspects of Milk Proteins

Abstract

The composition of milk obtained from various species shows great variations (Table 12.1). One of the major characteristics of the nutritional situation during the neonatal period in mammals is the fact that the offspring has to rely upon milk as their single source of nutrients. Thus, it is logical to assume, on a teleological basis, that the composition of the milk of different species represents the optimum composition of nutrients required during the neonatal period of that species. Consequently, it has rightly or wrongly been assumed that the composition of the milk of any mammalian species is the best indicator of the nutrient requirements of the offspring during the neonatal period.