Milk Coagulation Properties: A Study on Milk Protein Profile of Native and Improved Cattle Breeds/Types in Sri Lanka

This study was conducted to assess the variations of milk coagulation properties (MCP) among two native cattle types, e.g., Thamankaduwa White (TW), Lankan cattle (LC) and two improved cattle breeds, e.g., Friesian (FR) and Jersey (JS), in relation to distinctive milk protein compositions. MCP traits, including rennet coagulation time (RCT), curd firmness, meltability and yield, were measured. The milk protein profile of each breed/type was analyzed using capillary zone electrophoresis. Significant differences (p < 0.05) were observed among two native and improved cattle breeds/types in relation to RCT. Friesian and TW milk had the longest and shortest (p < 0.05) RCT, respectively. There was no significant difference in firmness among the four breeds/types. The highest (p < 0.05) coagulum yield was recorded for TW milk, followed by LC, JS and FR. TW milk had the highest (p < 0.05) meltability values. As revealed by the protein profiles, kappa-casein concentration was significantly higher in TW milk compared to the other three breeds/types. None of the other milk protein fractions showed significant differences among the four breeds/types. The overall results indicate the superior MCP of TW milk, emphasizing the value of native breeds which could be exploited in the development of niche dairy products while supporting the conservation effort of the native cattle gene pool.