Colostrum Quality in Different Goat Breeds Reared in Northern Italy.

Area of Science:

• Animal Science
• Dairy Science
• Goat Husbandry

Background:

• Colostrum quality is crucial for neonatal survival and growth in livestock.
• Local goat breeds may possess unique genetic traits influencing colostrum composition.
• Farming systems (intensive vs. semi-extensive) can impact milk production and quality.

Purpose of the Study:

• To characterize and compare colostrum quality among Italian local goat breeds (Frisa Valtellinese, Orobica, Lariana) and a cosmopolitan breed (Camosciata delle Alpi).
• To investigate the influence of breed and farming system on key colostrum components.
• To identify specific colostrum parameters that differentiate local from cosmopolitan goat breeds.

Main Methods:

• Colostrum samples were collected from 30 goats per breed (Frisa, Orobica, Lariana, Camosciata delle Alpi).
• Analysis included quantification of fat, lactose, protein, total solids, immunoglobulin G (IgG), and lactoferrin.
• Uni- and multivariate statistical analyses were employed to assess breed and system effects.

Main Results:

• Lariana breed exhibited the highest fat and total solids, while Orobica had the highest lactose.
• Frisa Valtellinese showed the highest concentrations of IgG and lactoferrin, indicating superior immune properties.
• Local breeds generally displayed higher colostrum component concentrations than the cosmopolitan Camosciata breed, with IgG being a key differentiator.

Conclusions:

• Italian local goat breeds, particularly Frisa and Lariana, produce colostrum with higher nutritional and immunological value compared to Camosciata delle Alpi.
• Breed-specific genetic characteristics and farming systems contribute to variations in colostrum quality.
• The superior colostrum quality of local breeds may be an adaptive trait enhancing kid goat development and survival.