Chemical composition and coagulating properties of renneted Friesian milk during the transition from winter rations to spring grazing

Abstract

SummaryThe chemical composition and rennet coagulation properties at pH 6·4 of milks from 2 commercial herds of Friesian cows were monitored during the change from winter diet to spring grazing. There was considerable variation both in composition and in coagulation properties during this period. There were significant trends for increasing concentrations of casein, Na and lactose, and decreasing concentrations of fat, citrate, K and Mg following the change. Many correlations occurred between concentrations of components, some of which may have physiological significance. Coagulum strength increased after the change to spring grazing and was related to the concentrations of casein, citrate and some of the minerals. Syneresis time did not follow any trend during this period, but was significantly related to concentrations of fat, Na and K. Rennet clotting time did not follow a significant trend immediately after the dietary change, but tended to increase as the summer progressed; it was significantly related to concentrations of Ca, PiNa and K, as well as to the original pH of the milk. When the concentration of lactose in milk was adjusted, variations in lactose concentration did not affect the coagulation properties of milk.