Colostrum and milk characteristics in Murgese breed mares

The physicochemical composition and antioxidant activity of Murgese mare's colostrum and milk during lactation were analyzed. Colostrum and milk samples from 14 lactating mares were collected on the 1st and 2nd day after foaling, and then at 15, 90, and 150 days postpartum. The results showed that the values of most of the chemical parameters in colostrum were higher. During lactation, the content of proteins, fat, dry matter as well as pH values increased, while lactose and lysozyme content decreased. The total antioxidant capacity (TAC) was evaluated by 2,2′-azinobis (3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-acid) (ABTS) and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assays. For both tests, colostrum showed a greater TAC. In milk TAC decreased over time to remain constant in the last months of lactation.