Effects of trace element supplementation on milk yield and composition in camels

Objective of the study was to determine milk yield and quality (fat, protein, mineral content) of camels reared in north-east Africa, supplemented with trace elements for the first nine months of lactation. Twelve multiparous lactating camels were divided into two groups: control and treated (trace element supplemented). Addition of trace elements did not affect milk production and milk fat and protein content (respectively 3.09 vs. 3.51 kg d−1; 2.86 vs. 2.56%; 3.31 vs. 3.19%, treatment vs. control). Calcium and zinc contents of milk were significantly higher in treated animals (1.20 vs. 0.94 g L−1 and 3.16 vs. 2.52 mg L−1; P<0.01). Mineral status of lactating camels and of their calves was assessed by analysis of plasma. Camel control diet was deficient in copper and supplementation did not allow reaching, neither in milk nor in plasma, the threshold values. Results suggest that oral trace element supplementation could increase zinc excretion in camels’ milk, despite the low levels of zinc in plasma.