Salt distribution between the colloidal and soluble phases of ewes' milk

Abstract

SUMMARYEwes' milk from two breeds of Greek sheep, Karagouniki and Serron, was analysed throughout mid and late lactation to investigate the salt distribution between colloidal and soluble phases. Separation of the phases was obtained by centrifugation at 48000 g. Effect of stage of lactation was significant only for total Mg in both breeds (P < 0·05) and for colloidal citrate in Serron ewe milk (P < 0·01). Breed differences were not significant (P < 0·05), except for colloidal casein.In the colloidal phase there was a strong positive correlation of casein with Ca and P, but correlation with Mg was poor. Molar sums of [Ca + Mg] and [P + Cit] were also significantly correlated. The Ca to P molar ratio averaged 2·00 and was higher than that reported for cows' milk. The inclusion of Mg as well as citrate in the colloidal calcium phosphate is indicated. In the aqueous phase there was a strong negative correlation of Ca with pH and a positive one with citrate. Correlation with phosphate was less. It seems that citrate is the main factor influencing Ca concentration in the soluble phase.