The aim of this study was to assess the effect of the addition of a standardized herbal mixture to the feed ration for Holstein-Friesian cows on the antioxidant capacity of milk. The study was carried out on a farm specialized in breeding dairy cattle. The exact study involved 30 cows in lactation III, which were in the first phase of lactation at the beginning of the experiment (15 cows—control group; 15 cows—experimental group). The nutrition supplied to the cows was based on the TMR (total mixed ration) system, with roughage and concentrate fodder used as the basis of the feed ration. The addition of a standardized blend of dried herbs, i.e., oregano (Origanum vulgare), thyme (Thymus vulgaris), purple coneflower (Echinacea purpurea), and cinnamon bark (Cinnamomum zeylanicum), was the experimental factor. Powdered herbs were administered as a component of the concentrate fodder at the dose of 3% DM ration/day/head. Milk samples were collected four times during the experiment (term 0 after the colostrum period and then after lactation weeks 2, 4, and 6). The following parameters were determined in the milk: the basic chemical composition, i.e., the content of total protein, fat, lactose, and casein; somatic cell count; content of selected whey proteins (α-lactalbumin, β-lactoglobulin, lactoferrin, BSA); and fat-soluble vitamins (A, D3, E). Additionally, the milk antioxidant capacity (ABTS, FRAP, DPPH) was determined and the degree of antioxidant protection (DAP) was calculated. It was shown that the milk from cows receiving the herbal blend-supplemented fodder had a higher content of casein, compared to the control group. The herbal supplementation contributed to a significant increase in the content of bioactive compounds, i.e., selected whey proteins (β-lactoglobulin, lactoferrin) and lipophilic vitamins (A, E). The milk was also characterized by significantly higher antioxidant potential (regardless of the measurement method) and a higher degree of antioxidant protection (DAP).
Nowadays, consumers choose food products, pay attention not only to their nutritional value and taste, but also to health-promoting properties. Milk from various animal species is a rich source of health-enhancing components present in the fat, protein and water fractions. They exert a multidirectional impact on the human organism and limit the risk of development of many lifestyle diseases. There are differences in the content of bioactive ingredients in milk from various animal species. In comparison with cow milk, which is of key importance in the world production, sheep and donkey milk contains higher amounts of whey proteins (mainly β-Lg) and polyunsaturated acids. Camel milk deserves special attention as well due to its high content of antibacterial substances, i.e. lactoferrin and lysozyme, as well as vitamins C and E. Importantly, milk and dairy products are a rich source of essential amino acids and minerals (mainly calcium), indispensable for normal functioning of the human organism. Due to the presence of antioxidants, i.e. β-Lg, lactoferrin, CLA, and vitamins E and C, they are classified as natural antioxidants.
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