Seasonal influence on total antioxidant capacity of milk samples from different domestic species of Kerala

Abstract

Milk is rich in vitamins, minerals, fats and high-quality proteins. Milk proteins namely casein, lactoferrin and amino acids such as tyrosine, cysteine, tryptophan and lysine have antioxidant properties. The present study was conducted with the objective of comparing the seasonal influence on total antioxidant capacity of milk samples collected from different species present in various farms of Kerala Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Mannuthy. The experiment was conducted in two seasons: summer (May) followed by monsoon (July). Pooled milk samples of Attapady and Malabari goats, Murrah buffaloes, crossbred (Holstein Friesian × Sahiwal) cows and native Vechur cows were collected during early morning milk collection for a period of 10 days in each season. Estimation of total antioxidant capacity was done on the same day of collection by ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assay. The results revealed that there was no seasonal effect on antioxidant capacity of milk of Vechur cows, buffaloes and crossbred cows. But milk of Attapady and Malabari goats shown highest antioxidant capacity in monsoon compared to summer. Analysing in different species, Vechur milk has the highest antioxidant capacity followed by buffalo milk and other species. Hence, it can be concluded from the study that besides the seasonal effects, Vechur and buffalo milks had highest antioxidant capacity followed by goat milk. Goat milk could be suggested instead of cow milk owing to its therapeutic significance.