Relationships between body condition score, milk yield and milk composition of Sarda goat

Abstract

In order to assess the correlation between body condition score (BCS), milk yield and milk fatty acid (FA) composition, 25 lactating Sarda breed goats were studied. BCS and milk yield were measured monthly, and milk samples for fat, protein, lactose and fatty acid profi le analysis were collected. Statistical analysis showed signifi cant correlations between numerous fatty acids and BCS. From these results, it comes out a strong link between milk fatty acid composition and nutritional status of the animal, which could be guided, not only to improve milk productions, but also to characterize its quality