Nutritional and therapeutic properties of donkey milk: A review

Abstract

Recently, there has been increasing interest in donkey’s milk. Donkeys’ milk is a good alternative source for infant nutrition in the case of cow milk protein allergy and also an excellent substitute to human milk. The donkey milk composition shows close resemblance to human milk for lactose, protein and ash when compared with cow, buffalo, goat and sheep milk. Several scientific research studies was proved that the donkey milk contain several bioactive ingredients that improve health and boost the immunity. The donkey milk contains antimicrobial substances such as lysozyme and lactoferrin. These are also present in cow, goat and sheep milk but in lesser quantity. The donkey milk also contains lower fat and cholesterol than cow, goat and sheep milk. The present review addresses various aspects of donkey milk with special emphasis on milk yield, composition and therapeutic properties compared to other mammals.