Changes in milk components, amino acids, and fatty acids of Bactrian camels in different lactation periods

Changes in physicochemical parameters and composition of Bactrian camel milk were evaluated at 1, 7, 21, 35, and 90 days postpartum. Bactrian camel milk contained 14.82% total solids (TS), 10.89% solid nonfat (SNF), 5.96% lactose, 4.73% protein, 3.88% fat, and 0.88% ash on average in an apparent negative trend. Density and refractive index (RI) volatility decreased as lactation progressed (pH increased 21 days postpartum, following a decrease) with a relatively stable decline in freezing point, electrical conductivity (EC), and acidity. The amino acid profile declined in relative proportions as lactation processed, represented mainly by leucine and glutamic acid, and methionine, cysteine, and glycine to a lesser degree. The fatty acid profile, predominated by C18:1n9c, C16:0, and C14:0, changed according to the lactation stages, especially the highest unsaturated fatty acids on 1st day. Understanding the physicochemical indicators and composition represents the basis for research and development of Bactrian camel milk. (c) 2022 Published by Elsevier Ltd.