Quality attributes of raw milk from White Fulani cattle in different locations of Yewa division in Ogun State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study was conducted to assess the quality of raw milk from four locations of agro herdsmen settlement in Yewa zone of Ogun State. Thirty-two lactating White Fulani cows at first phase of lactation were used for this study. Eight cows were milked on each location which represented the treatments: TL₁ = Afobaje, TL₂ = Awela, TL₃ = Igbo, TL₄ = Isa Ope. The physical, chemical and sensory properties of raw milk were determined in a completely randomised design at (p < 0.05). Data were analysed using analysis of variance and the means separated. The sensory characteristics were evaluated on a 5-point hedonic scale (1 = disliked extremely and 5 = liked extremely). The results of the physical properties showed that milk from TL₂ had the least foreign bodies and higher colour intensity. Milk samples from TL₂ and TL₄ had higher chemical composition (Moisture, Protein, Fat, Ash, Lactose and NPN) than milk from other locations, TL₄ had lower (p < 0.05) microbial load. The sensory attributes (Colour, Flavour, Taste, Odour and Overall Acceptability) of milk from TL₂ were adjudged the most preferable and the milk was highly accepted. It was concluded that milk from TL₂ was preferred and recommended for consumption.