Abstract
The physical-chemical characteristics and sensory attributes of milk are variable. This study aimed to evaluate how spineless cactus varieties resistant to carmine cochineal (Dactylopius sp.) influences the composition and sensory characteristics of goat milk. Twelve lactating goats with body weights of 51.35 ± 3.75 kg were distributed in a 4 × 4 Latin square, with three simultaneous squares composed of four animals, four periods, and four experimental diets: Control - goats fed tifton grass hay and concentrate; SCOE - goats fed the Orelha-de-elefante spineless cactus, tifton hay, and concentrate; SCB – goats fed the Baiana spineless cactus, tifton hay, and concentrate; SCM – goats fed the Miúda spineless cactus, tifton hay, and concentrate. The levels of protein and non-greasy solids and the sensory attributes of the milk (odor, butter flavor, and global acceptance) did not differ between the treatments (p > 0.05). The lipid content of the milk was reduced in the SCOE treatment compared to the control (p = 0.0014). The milk obtained from animals fed the SCOE and SCM treatments had a stronger flavor (p < 0.05). These results suggest that varieties of spineless cactus resistant to carmine cochineal can be used as goat feed without affecting milk production or global acceptance.
Highlights
Goat milk is a healthy food and a source of protein with high biological value
The varieties of forage palm used in this study are common to the semiarid region of Northeast Brazil and usually fed to dairy goats
The tifton hay and corn bran in the control diet were partially replaced by varieties of spineless cactus, which did not affect milk production (p = 0.0705) or the protein and non-fat solids (NFS) levels (p > 0.05; Table 4)
Summary
Goat milk is a healthy food and a source of protein with high biological value. It is a valuable commodity in many countries and has a greater composition and mineral bioavailability than cow milk. In the semiarid region of northeastern Brazil, the lack of quality forage is a major problem for dairy goat producers. This region is characterized by low and irregular annual rainfall, which acts as a limiting factor of animal production (Aguiar et al, 2015; Pereira Filho, Silva, & Cézar, 2013; Lopes et al, 2012). The chemical composition of different spineless cactus varieties is consistent, with an average of 10.83 % dry matter, 3.95 % crude protein, and a high non-fibrous carbohydrate content (53.04 %) (Bezerra, Araújo, Pereira, Laurentino, & Silva, 2014)
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