A Systematic Review of the Bioactive Components, Nutritional Qualities and Potential Therapeutic Applications of Donkey Milk.
Authors: Garhwal Renu, Sangwan Karnam, Mehra Rahul, Kumar Naveen, Bhardwaj Anuradha, Pal Yash, Buttar Harpal Singh, Kumar Harish
Journal: Journal of equine veterinary science
Summary
# Editorial Summary Donkey milk has emerged as a subject of considerable nutritional and therapeutic interest, primarily because its composition—characterised by high protein and lactose alongside low fat—closely mirrors human breast milk rather than equine requirements. This systematic review synthesises evidence on donkey milk's bioactive components, examining how lactation stage, processing methods, and manufacturing techniques influence macronutrient profiles, whilst cataloguing documented antimicrobial, antiviral, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties alongside its hypo-allergenic profile. The research demonstrates that donkey milk has been successfully incorporated into diverse food products including fermented beverages, cheese, and powder formulations, with bioactive macromolecules conferring genuine therapeutic potential across multiple pathways. For equine professionals, whilst the review's primary focus addresses human infant nutrition and allergy management, the detailed characterisation of donkey milk's immunomodulatory and antimicrobial mechanisms may inform evidence-based discussions regarding alternative nutritional interventions in equine practice, particularly for foals with digestive sensitivities or compromised immunity. Understanding the variables affecting donkey milk composition is pertinent for practitioners considering donor milk protocols or developing therapeutic feeding strategies, though direct application to equine patients would require species-specific validation beyond the scope of this human-focused review.
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Practical Takeaways
- •This review focuses on human infant nutrition and is not directly applicable to equine practice.
- •The nutritional composition and bioactive properties of donkey milk have relevance to equine nutrition research but do not address working horse management.
- •The findings relate to donkey husbandry for milk production rather than clinical equine care or athletic performance.
Key Findings
- •Donkey milk composition is similar to human milk with high protein and lactose content and low-fat concentration, making it suitable for infant formulas.
- •Donkey milk exhibits antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties.
- •Donkey milk demonstrates hypo-allergenicity and is a suitable alternative for infants with cow's milk allergies.
- •Bioactive macronutrient levels in donkey milk are influenced by lactation status, processing, and manufacturing techniques.