Effects of goat breeds on the physicochemical properties of raw goat milk

Abstract This study evaluated the physicochemical composition of milk from 175 goats belonging to four breeds (Arabia, Chami, Saanen, and Alpine) in an arid environment, focusing on moisture content, total solids, fat, protein, solids-not-fat (SNF), freezing point, and density. Significant variations in milk composition were observed across breeds ( p < 0.001). Saanen and Chami exhibited the highest levels of fat (5.29% and 5.42%, respectively), protein (3.86% and 3.69%), SNF (9.20% and 9.13%), and lactose (4.78% and 5.13%) ( p < 0.001). Saanen also recorded the highest density (1028.39 kg/m 3 ) and the lowest freezing point (-0.56 °C) ( p < 0.001). While Alpine showed more moderate values for these parameters (4.23% fat, 2.99% protein, and 7.78% SNF), it remained competitive compared to the local Arabia breed. Arabia, the only indigenous breed in the study, displayed lower fat (3.91%) and protein (3.07%) content but stood out for its remarkable adaptation to arid conditions, emphasizing its value as a genetic resource to preserve. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) further confirmed clear distinctions among the breeds based on milk composition. These findings highlight the potential of imported breeds to enhance productivity while underscoring the importance of conserving local breeds for resilient production systems. Future research should investigate additional environmental factors, the benefits of genetic crossbreeding, and strategies to optimize the conservation of indigenous breeds.