ABSTRACT:
The chemical composition of Santa Inês sheep colostrum was evaluated, as well as chilled milk (zero to 240 hours) and frozen milk for up to 70 days. Results of chemical composition (fat, protein, casein, lactose, total and degreased dry extract) and colostrum somatic cell count (SCC) were presented descriptively. The results of chemical composition and SCC and total bacterial count (TBC) of chilled and frozen milk were evaluated in a completely randomized design, the repetition of milk collection days and the treatments of the times when the milk was chilled and frozen. The comparison of the quality averages of chilled and frozen milk was performed by Tukey test, with a probability of 5.0 %. Santa Inês sheep colostrum showed high protein and fat content, demonstrating a high source of nutrients for lamb nutrition. Santa Inês sheep’s milk can be stored for up to 240 hours without changes in chemical quality. Frozen milk from Santa Inês ewes for up to 70 days minus fat content; however, this form of milk preservation is viable. Refrigeration and freezing are alternatives that add value to the milk of Santa Inês ewes, but studies with previous preservation methods are necessary for greater quality assurance.
Key words:
conservation methods; fat content; ovis aries; protein value