Mineral Content Of Milk Research Articles

Chemical composition and mineral content of goat milk from four indigenous Portuguese breeds in relation to one foreign breed

Raw goat milk samples from Saanen and indigenous Portuguese breeds were analysed for gross composition, minerals and trace elements. Mean results revealed that some distinction could be seen for the Serrana breed. A significant geographical difference (P < 0.05) between Serrana herds was also observed. Generally, milk from Saanen did not differ significantly (P > 0.05) from that of the indigenous Portuguese breeds. Multivariate analysis showed that goat breeds could be divided into two groups, the ones reared mainly inland and those reared towards the coast. Potentially toxic elements were not detected.

Some factors affecting production and milk composition characters in a crossbreeding experiment involving Gabali and V- line rabbits in Egypt.

Data from 662 litters and 221 samples (two replicates per each sample) of rabbit milk were collectedfrom three different genetic groups [Gabali (G), V-line (V) and G×V (F1)] to study the effect of line and of somenon-genetic factors affecting production and milk composition traits. The studied traits were: number bornalive (LSBA); litter size at weaning (LSW); litter weight born alive (LWBA); litter weight at weaning (LWW); totalmilk yield (TMY) and protein, fat, total solids (TS), ash, phosphorus (P), potassium (K), sodium (Na), calcium(Ca) and magnesium (Mg) milk content. The genetic group effect was significant for LSBA [V (7.3) and F1(7.3)were superior to G (6.6)); LWBA (higher values for V (416 g) and F1 (405 g) than for G (382 g)]; TMY [G (3497g) and F1(3486 g) higher than V (3042 g)]; milk fat [F1 (26%) and G (25%) superior to V (23%)] and milkTS[F1(42%) superior to G (40%) and V (39%)]. The estimates of the heterosis effect ranged between 1.6% and12.8% for production and milk gross chemical traits, being significant only for milk fat content (9.1%). Thepositive values of the heterosis estimates for those traits and the complementarity between the G breed andthe V line, the G superior in milk related traits but the V superior in prolificacy, show the interest of their crossand of the synthetic lines derived from them. The heterosis was non-significant for milk mineral content traits.The parity effects were significant for LSBA, fat, TS, ash and K (the maxima were reached at 6th or 5th parity).The effect of week of lactation was significant for fat, ash and TS, corresponding the maximum values of fatand TS to the 3rd and 4th week. The year-season or the year-month effects were significant for all traitsshowing the importance of including these time-period factors into the statistical models proposed for the traits.

Transmission Electron Microscopy Study of Casein Micelle in Raw Milk with Different Somatic Cell Count Levels

The relationship between elevated raw milk somatic cell count (SCC) and casein micelle dimension was investigated by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Milk samples collected from the dairy cattle with three different levels of SCC (<200,000, 200,000 to 800,000, and >800,000 cells/ml) were studied by TEM. The results indicated that an increase in SCC resulted in a decrease in the casein micelle size with an increase in their aggregation. The present research supported the hypothesis that elevated proteolytic activity, reduced secretary ability of the mammary glands, lower electrostatic and steric repulsion as well as different mineral contents of mastitic milk could affect casein micelle properties.

English

&nbsp; This study was conducted to evaluate&nbsp;the effect of feeding supplemental zinc (zinc sulfate) in different levels (15, 30, or 45 mg/kg) on trace mineral concentrations in milk of ewes. Thirty lactating Varaminni ewes were assigned to three experimental groups according to their live body weights, milk production and lambs sex in a completely randomized design. Ewes were fed a basal diet containing alfalfa, wheat straw, cottonseed meal, barley grain, wheat bran, cracked corn and vitamin-mineral supplements at 3.2% of body weight (BW) to meet NRC requirements for protein, energy and macro minerals. The basal diet contained 15 mg/kg Zn and zinc sulfate was added to the basal diet to supply 30 or 45 mg/kg of dietary zinc.&nbsp;Daily milk yielded was recorded&nbsp;at 7 days intervals&nbsp;and samples of the milk were taken once per week for determination of milk composition and trace mineral concentration. Concentrations of Zn, Cu, Mn and Fe in milk were determined. Dry matter intake (DMI), milk yield and milk compositions were not affected by supplemental zinc&nbsp;(P &gt; 0.05).&nbsp;But zinc concentrations in milk were affected by supplemental zinc&nbsp;(P &lt; 0.05).&nbsp;Other mineral concentrations were&nbsp;not affected by supplemental zinc&nbsp;(P &gt; 0.05).&nbsp;&nbsp;It suggests that supplementation of ewes diet with zinc sulfate could be an effective way to increase zinc concentration in milk when zinc concentration of basal diets is limited for ewes in lactation period. &nbsp; Key words:&nbsp;Supplemental zinc, zinc sulfate, Varaminni ewes.

Effect of milk minerals on calf gains and sex differences in mineral composition of milk from Iberian red deer (Cervus elaphus hispanicus)

Milk mineral content has received little attention in studies focusing on milk nutrient effects on offspring growth. This study examines calf growth in Iberian deer and compares the influence of milk minerals, other nutrients, and lactation variables relevant for growth to discern the relative weight of each factor. In addition, because Iberian deer hinds are the first mammal found to produce different milk for sons and daughters, the present study examines whether there are also sex differences in milk mineral composition. Concentrations and yields of Ca, P, Mg, Na, K, Fe, and Zn in milk of 46 red deer hinds were monitored through 18 weeks of lactation. Calf growth was influenced by Ca and P percent, and total Fe production. Milk for males had a lower content in Ca and P, a greater content of K, and Mg, whereas no sex effects were found in Na, Fe, or Zn percentages. Higher percentages in Ca and P for daughters might constitute a compensatory response, as daily production was not biased towards females in Ca or P, whereas in the latter and all the other minerals daily production was greater for heavier calves, which are usually males. In conclusion, milk mineral content and production influence calf growth even after controlling for other important lactation variables and nutrients, and they show effects and interactions more complicated than expected.

Effects of soy isoflavone consumption on bone structure and milk mineral concentration in a rat model of lactation-associated bone loss

Like menopause, during complete lactation, circulating estrogen concentrations are markedly reduced, resulting in amplified bone resorption. To investigate the effects of soy isoflavones, common dietary components used to mitigate the bone loss of menopause, on the bone loss associated with lactation. Lactating rats were randomized to one of four diets supplemented with different levels of soy isoflavones (0, 2, 4, 8 mg aglycone isoflavone/g protein). Milk was collected from all dams between days 12 and 15 of lactation and was analyzed for calcium, phosphorus and genistein concentrations. Serum and bones from half of the animals from each diet group were taken at weaning and from the remaining half at 4 weeks post-weaning. Bones underwent histomorphometric analysis and serum was used for genistein determinations. Serum genistein and milk concentrations reflected dietary isoflavone dose. Isoflavone intake had no effect on any of the bone changes associated with lactation or recovery. Milk calcium and mineral concentrations were unaffected by dietary isoflavones. Consumption of soy isoflavones, in levels that can be readily attained through soy foods, have neither protective effects on bone nor deleterious effects on milk quality or quantity during lactation.

Mineral Contents of Milk of Cattle, Camels, Goats and Sheep in the Central Region of Saudi Arabia

Mineral Contents of Milk of Cattle, Camels, Goats and Sheep in the Central Region of Saudi Arabia

Complementary feeding: clinically relevant factors affecting timing and composition

Exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 mo of life followed by optimal complementary feeding are critical public health measures for reducing and preventing morbidity and mortality in young children. Clinical factors, such as birth weight, prematurity, and illness, that affect the iron and zinc requirements of younger infants are discussed. Maternal diet and nutritional status do not have a strong effect on the mineral content of human milk, but physiologic changes in milk and the infants’ status determine the dependence of the infant on complementary foods in addition to human milk to meet iron and zinc requirements after 6 mo. The nature of zinc absorption, which is suitably characterized by saturation response modeling, dictates that plant-based diets, which are low in zinc, are associated with low absolute daily absorbed zinc, which is inadequate to meet requirements. Foods with a higher zinc content, such as meats, are much more likely to be sufficient to meet dietary requirements. Current plant-based complementary feeding patterns for older fully breastfed infants in both developed and developing countries pose a risk of zinc deficiency. The strong rationale for the potential benefits of providing meat as an early complementary food, and the examples of successful intervention programs, provide potent incentives to pursue broader implementation programs, with concurrent rigorous evaluation of both efficacy and effectiveness.

Influence of breed, year season and lactation stage on the buffalo milk mineral content

This study was conducted to determine the milk mineral composition of buffalo raised in Corrientes, Argentina, as well as to investigate variations attributed to breed, lactation period and time of the year. Milk samples (n = 105) were collected from 25 Murrah, Mediterranean, Jafarabadi and half-breed Murrah x Mediterranean buffaloes of second and fifth lactation. Animals were located in a dairy farm area with subtropical wet climate with 1.690 mm annual rains and annual mean temperature of 22°C. Mean records were: Ca (1.12 ± 0.40 g.kg-1), P (0.99 ± 0.32 g.kg-1), Mg (0.08± 0.02 g.kg-1), K (0.92 ± 0.25 g.kg-1), Na (0.35 ± 0.11 g.kg-1), Cu (0.35 ± 0.16 mg.kg-1), Mn (0.27 ± 0.10 mg.kg-1), Zn (4.10 ± 1.40 mg.kg-1) y Fe (1.61 ± 0.61 mg.kg-1). These parameters did not reveal significant differences attributable to breed, except for Mg. The time of the year affected the composition of the minerals, except for the Mg and Zn. The nursing stages affect the Ca, P, K and Cu concentrations. From the results obtained, it can be concluded that the mineral content in the milk of buffaloes, it is considerably influenced by regional factors.

Physico-chemical characteristics of goat and sheep milk

Physico-chemical characteristics of milk are related to its composition for a particular animal species. Sheep milk contains higher levels of total solids and major nutrient than goat and cow milk. Lipids in sheep and goat milk have higher physical characteristics than in cow milk, but physico-chemical indices (i.e., saponification, Reichert Meissl and Polenske values) vary between different reports. Micelle structures in goat and sheep milk differ in average diameter, hydration, and mineralization from those of cow milk. Caprine casein micelles contain more calcium and inorganic phosphorus, are less solvated, less heat stable, and lose β-casein more readily than bovine casein micelles. Renneting parameters in cheese making of sheep milk are affected by physico-chemical properties, including pH, larger casein micelle, more calcium per casein weight, and other mineral contents in milk, which cause differences in coagulation time, coagulation rate, curd firmness, and amount of rennet needed. Renneting time for goat milk is shorter than for cow milk, and the weak consistency of the gel is beneficial for human digestion but decreases its cheese yield. Triacylglycerols (TAG) constitute the biggest part of milk lipids (nearly 98%), including a large number of esterified fatty acids. Sheep and goat milk also have simple lipids (diacylglycerols, monoacylglycerols, cholesterol esters), complex lipids (phospholipids), and liposoluble compounds (sterols, cholesterol esters, hydrocarbons). The average fat globule size is smallest (<3.5 μm) in sheep milk followed by goat and cow milk. Five fatty acids (C10:0, C14:0, C16:0, C18:0, and C18:1) account for >75% of total fatty acids in goat and sheep milk. Levels of the metabolically valuable short and medium chain fatty acids, caproic (C6:0) (2.9%, 2.4%, 1.6%), caprylic (C8:0) (2.6%, 2.7%, 1.3%), capric (C10:0) (7.8%, 10.0%, 3.0%), and lauric (C12:0) (4.4%, 5.0%, 3.1%) are significantly higher in sheep and goat than in cow milk, respectively. Principal caseins (CN) in goat, sheep and cow milk are α s1-CN, α s2-CN, β-CN and κ-CN. The main forms of caprine and ovine caseino-macropeptides (CMP), which are the soluble C-terminal derivatives from the action of chymosin on κ-casein during the milk clotting process of cheesemaking, have been identified and are a good source of antithrombotic peptides. Sheep and goat milk proteins are also important sources of bioactive angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitory peptides and antihypertensive peptides. They can provide a non-immune disease defence and control of microbial infections. Important minor milk proteins include immunoglobulins, lactoferrin, transferrin, ferritin, proteose peptone, calmodulin (calcium binding protein), prolactin, and folate-binding protein. Non-protein nitrogen (NPN) contents of goat and human milks are higher than in cow milk. Taurine in goat and sheep milk derived from sulphur-containing amino acids has important metabolic functions as does carnitine, which is a valuable nutrient for the human neonate. Mineral and vitamin contents of goat and sheep milk are mostly higher than in cow milk.

Levels of 24 minerals in local goat milk, its strained yoghurt and salted yoghurt (tuzlu yoğurt)

The study was conducted to determine concentrations of 24 minerals including Ca, K, Mg, Na, P, S, Ag, Al, As, B, Ba, Cd, Co, Cu, Cr, Fe, Mn, Mo, Ni, Pb, Se, Si, Sr and Zn as well as gross chemical composition of salted yoghurt, strained yoghurt and the indigenous raw goats’ milk by simultaneous inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP–OES). Basic nutrient and mineral contents of raw milk increased significantly throughout manufacture of salted yoghurt ( P < 0.001). Mean percentage of total solids, total protein, fat, ash and pH values for raw milk, strained yoghurt and salted yoghurt were: 12.32, 17.82, 28.41; 4.15, 8.31, 11.56; 4.37, 7.10, 10.45; 0.76, 0.79, 2.69; 6.68, 3.87, 3.95, respectively. Mean concentrations (ppm) for major minerals in raw milk, strained yoghurt and salted yoghurt were: 1342, 1455 and 2134 Ca; 823, 1052 and 1508 P; 510, 587 and 838 Mg; 296, 553 and 923 S; 409, 511 and 554 K; 433, 520 and 5147 Na, respectively. Of minor minerals B, Si, Se, Zn, Fe and Al were the most abundant in raw milk and its products. Except for As, toxic elements Cd, Ag, Pb (ppm) were 0.63, 0.28 and 0.06 for raw milk, 1.01, 0.29 and 0.11 for strained yoghurt, 1.00, 0.71 and 1.3 for salted yoghurt, respectively. Constituents in strained and salted yoghurts were influenced by the fermentation process, draining of yoghurt, cooking, salting and manufacturing utensils. This work also provided important information on safety and quality standards of local goats’ milk, strained and salted yoghurts.

Variations of vitamin and mineral contents in raw goat milk of the indigenous Greek breed during lactation

Raw goat milk samples from the indigenous Greek breed in the area of Ioannina, northwestern Greece, were collected during one lactation and analyzed for vitamins A, E, B 1, B 2, and C and for minerals Ca, Mg, P, Na, K, Cu, Fe and Zn. Also, the major constituents of goat milk, namely fat, protein, lactose and solids-non-fat, were determined. The average composition (%) of milk was: fat 4.10, protein 3.36, lactose 4.48 and solids-non-fat 8.54. The mean concentration of the fat-soluble vitamins retinol (A) and α-tocopherol (E) were 0.013 and 0.121 mg/100 ml, respectively. The mean concentration of the water-soluble vitamins, thiamin (B 1), riboflavin (B 2) and ascorbic acid (C) were 0.260, 0.112 and 5.48 mg/100 ml, respectively. Seasonal variations were observed for all vitamins studied. Thiamin had significantly ( P < 0.05) higher concentrations during summer than in winter and early spring. The observed variations of the studied vitamins might be attributed to the differences in the feeding of goats during lactation. The mean mineral contents (mg/100 g) of goat milk were Ca 132, P 97.7, Na 59.4, K 152, Mg 15.87, Cu 0.08, Fe 0.06, Zn 0.37 and Mn 6.53 μg/100 g. Seasonal variations were observed for the major minerals Ca, P, K, and the trace elements Cu and Zn.

Comparison Of Chemical And Mineral Content Of Milk From Human, Cow, Buffalo, Camel And Goat In Egypt.

Milk is an important food; it is considered as a good source of Ca. Comparison studies of chemical and mineral contents of milk from human, cow, buffalo, camel and goat in Egypt are rare, so we determine chemical and mineral composition cows; camels; buffalo and goats milk in Egypt and to compare with the human milk since such comparisons are rare in Egypt. There are several studies dealing with the chemical composition of milk, but they are foreign, non- Egyptian. It is known that changing of environment has a significant effect on natural physiological function of both human and animals, so it was very important to made such study on Egyptian environment (ecology), hoping to give understanding and explain some of the malnutrition problems in Egypt. Three hundred and two milk samples were obtained at random from: cows; camels; buffalo and goats (n: 44, 108, 40, 40 respectively), while human milk was obtained from healthy lactating women (n: 70, after 3 rd month of lactation). Chemical constituents as protein, fat, carbohydrates, moisture, ash and lactose were determined. Mineral contents as calcium (Ca), iron (Fe), Zinc (Zn), sodium (Na), potassium (K), magnesium (Mg), copper (Cu), phosphorous (P) and manganese (Mn) were measured in the ash. Human milk contains the lowest protein and ash content. Buffalo milk has the highest fat and total solids content. It gives the higher yield of energy. Human milk contains the highest carbohydrates and lactose content (4.98 gm% carbohydrates, of which 4.70 are lactose, i.e. it represent 94.46 %). Human milk contains the lowest concentration of Ca, P, Fe, Zn, Na, K and Mg. Ca: P ratio of human milk is higher (2.32 vs 1.18-1.47) than other species. Mn content of human milk is higher (human milk contains ≈ 6.5 times camel and cow milk and 24.14 times as goat milk). Buffalo milk has the highest Ca, P and Mg content. Camel milk has the highest Fe, Zn, Na and Cu content. Goat milk has the highest K content. Chemical and mineral content of the 5 studied species varied widely. Camel, buffalo, cow and goat milk cannot replace human milk but it may complement it. Key words:

Concentrations of minerals in milk of sheep and goats grazing similar pastures in a semiarid region of Pakistan

An investigation was conducted to evaluate and compare the mineral content of milk from a flock of sheep and goats grazing similar pastures in Southern Punjab, Pakistan. Milk samples were taken eight times after an interval of 2 weeks during two different seasons of the year. Milk samples were analyzed for Ca, Mg, K, Na, Cu, Fe, Zn, Mn, Co and Se. Sheep milk was higher than goat milk in Mg, K, Na and Fe. No differences were seen in overall Co and Se concentrations, while goat milk was higher in Ca, Cu, Mn and Zn. Goat milk was higher than sheep milk in Ca and Zn during both seasons, Fe, Mn and Co during winter and Cu only during summer and lower in Mg and K during both seasons and Na only during winter with similar amounts of milk, Co and Se in both sheep and goats during winter and summer. Clear species differences were seen in Ca, K, Mg, Na and Zn concentrations of milk in this study. Overall mineral status of sheep and goats grazing the same types of pastures was inadequate and mineral supplements containing the deficient elements found in this study are recommended in this region.

Which milk for the sick preterm infant?

Summary Understanding the nutritional needs of the sick preterm infant will ensure that nutritionally adequate milks are used, but to minimise complications an understanding of the interaction between milk composition and neonatal gastrointestinal physiology is required. Unmodified preterm breast milk is probably the safest milk, but might require supplementation with fortifiers to meet nutritional needs. Fortification affects the osmolarity, protein and mineral content of breast milk in ways that can have adverse effects on intestinal function. Although preterm formulas meet the nutritional requirements of sick preterm infants, formula milk is associated with an increased risk of necrotising enterocolitis. Hydrolysate and elemental formulas have a role in treating established malabsorption, dysmotility or obstruction, but they are nutritionally inadequate for the sick preterm baby and have features which make them unsuitable for the prevention of gastrointestinal disease. In some circumstances, the use of minimal or partial enteral nutrition can help to maintain nutrition in the particularly sick infant, in which case the nutritional content of the milk will be less critical.

Mineral Content Of The Milk Of Fulani Women And The Sera Of Their Breast-Fed Infants

Objectives: TO evaluate the mineral and trace element content of breast milk of the Fulani of Nigeria with respect to levels obtained with sera from Fulani mother baby pairs. Methods: We obtained milk and serum from 34 Fulani mother –infant pairs. The samples were collected through bimanual expression midway through feeding .The age, height, weight, skin –fold thickened, parity, and information regarding the general state of health of each subject were recorded. Following collection, milk and serum specimens were liquated in to 1.5ml cryovials and stored at 20 o m until which time they were analysed. Results: The levels of calcium, chromium, copper , iron, magnesium ,manganese ,and zinc in the milk were within or exceeded the range of values reported for other populations world wide and were comparable to those of the United States. Copper, zinc ,iron, and calcium decreased in concentration by 550-75% over the first six month postgestation . copper and iron displayed a positive correction between their maternal sera and milk concentrations. No significant positive correction were observed between minerals in milk and the sera of nursing infants, in fact, a negative correction was observed with copper levels of those fluids. Further more , high milk concentration of zinc appeared to antagonize the absorption of copper in the breast –fed infants. Conclusion: These finding indicate that the milk of Fulani women provides sufficient amounts of critical and trace elements to satisfy the needs of their exclusively breast-fed infant during the first six months of life. In addition, the concentration of each of these mineral in infant serum is not related to their respective levels in milk Key words: Human milk, trace element, minerals, Fulani, nutrition. Highland Medical Research Journal Vol.1(2) 2002: 6-11

Cacosmie au cours d'un traitement par ésoméprazole

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of kefir fermentation on the chemical properties, as well as the vitamin and mineral compositions of hair and Saanen goat milk samples, including intensive and extensive nutritional regimes. Kefir samples were produced with natural kefir grains (2%). Chemical properties (pH, titration acidity, total solids, fat, protein and ash), vitamin (A, E, B1, B2, B3, B6 and C) and mineral (Na, K, Ca, Mg, P, Fe, Zn, Se, Cu and Mn) compositions were analyzed using liquid chromatography.Kefir made from hair goat milk had a higher content of proximate values and vitamin–mineral composition. Local (indigenous) breed hair goat milk exhibited important nutritional and functional properties, including high contents of protein, fat, total solids, vitamins and minerals. This study demonstrated that feeding conditions, breeds and fermentation have significant influences on vitamin–mineral contents of milk and kefir. Both the extensive feeding regime and breeding led to enhanced concentrations of fat-soluble vitamins in milk.

Comparison of the Mineral Content and Apparent Biological Value of Milk from Human, Cow and Goat

The mineral content and apparent biological value (ABV) of milk from Human (T1), White Fulani (Bunaji) cow (T2) and West African dwarf goats (T3) (n=10) were assessed following a completely randomised design model and covariance analysis respectively. Concentration per million (ppm) were 210, 150 and 52 Na, (goat, human and cow milk) while potassium content was similar (P>0.05) in human (1.60) and goat (1.55) milk compared to that of cow milk. Quantity of Ca, Mg, P, Fe, Cu and Mn were higher in goat and human milk. They were lowest in cow milk: 4.03, 0.92, 1.07, 0.25 and 1.59ppm respectively. In these three treatments, the respective ratios Ca.P-1 were 4.2:1 (T1), 4.4:1 (T2) and 4.6:1 (T3) while Ca.Mg-1 and P.Mg-1 were decreased from 3.9 (cow milk) to 1.9 (human milk) and 0.89 (cow milk) to 0.45 (human milk). In conclusion, the milk of goat (West African dwarf) which contained more of these mineral contents similar to that of human milk, is a pointer to the nutritional contribution of goat milk in a country like Nigeria where prevailing undernourishment and malnutrition are accompanied by low intake of some minerals and vitamins among the populace and most especially the vulnerable (pregnant, lactating mothers, infants and weanlings and the sick) groups. The Journal of Food Technology in Africa Volume 7 No.1, 2002, pp. 9-11 KEY WORDS: West African dwarf goat, White Fulani (Bunaji) cow, Mineral composition, Apparent Biological Value.

Bipolar membrane electroacidification of demineralized skim milk.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of decreasing the mineral content of skim milk by electrodialysis (ED) prior to electroacidification with bipolar membrane (BMEA) on the performance of the process, the chemical composition, and the physicochemical and functional properties of the isolates produced. ED used to demineralize the skim milk solution was very efficient. However, the electroacidification parameters were influenced by the demineralization level of the skim milk solution: the energy efficiency was decreased with an increase in demineralization, but it was still possible to perform BMEA at a very low conductivity level. Moreover, the isolates produced by BMEA after electrodialysis demineralization at different rates showed similar chemical composition, except on potassium and lactose contents for 75% demineralized isolate. These isolates, except on protein load for 75% demineralization rate, showed similar physicochemical and functional properties, whatever the demineralization rate.

Correlation between the content of intermediate chain-length fatty acids and copper in the milk of Fulani women

Intermediate chain-length fatty acids (C10-C14) in human milk triglycerides provide an easily absorbable fuel that provide a significant amount of the energy needed for growth during the first few months of life. The C10-C14 fatty acid and trace mineral content of human milk is variable. In this report we examined the relationship between the content of calcium, copper, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, and zinc, and the weight percentage of C10-C14 fatty acids in milk from 33 Fulani women in northern Nigeria between 2 and 24 weeks post-gestation. The milk from these women contained proportions of C10-C14 fatty acids that were comparable to those reported for other populations around the world, as were the concentrations of Ca, Cu, Mg, Mn, Zn and P. Significant correlations were observed between the milk content of Cu and the wt% of C10 (P=0.005, r=0.475), C12 (P=0.001, r=0.539), C14 (P=0.44, r=0.352) and the total intermediate chain-length fatty acids (P=0.008, r=0.450). No correlations were observed between these fatty acids and any of the other five minerals. We speculate that the relationship between Cu and fatty acids could be related to a requirement for Cu by an enzyme required for C10-C14 fatty acid biosynthesis (e.g. decanoyl deacylase) in mammary tissue, or to some unique Cu binding properties of the intermediate chain length fatty acids.