Comparative analysis of milk composition in Swedish Mountain Cattle and modern dairy breeds (Swedish Red and Swedish Holstein)

This study compared the milk composition of Swedish Mountain Cattle (SMC) with modern dairy breeds, Swedish Red (SRB) and Swedish Holstein (SH). SRB milk had significantly higher fat and saturated fatty acid contents (p < 0.001), whilst SH milk demonstrated the lowest levels of most solids. SMC milk exhibited a higher lactose and a favourable casein profile with elevated alpha s1-casein, total beta-casein, and beta-casein A1 concentrations (p = 0.001, p < 0.001, p = 0.006), indicating good potential for cheese-making. However, SMC milk also contained reduced kappa-casein levels and a significantly higher pH (p < 0.001), compared to the modern breeds. Principal Component Analysis revealed a homogeneous and compositionally stable profile in SMC milk, distinct from SRB and SH, underscoring its value in traditional dairy production. These findings support the preservation and targeted use of native breeds in diversified dairy systems.