Effect of chokeberry pomace as a feed additive for high-producing dairy goats on oxidative stress parameters and quality of milk.

Introduction: Chokeberry pomace, rich in polyphenolic compounds, holds potential to be a valuable feed additive for enhancing the antioxidative capacity and overall quality of milk. This study explores the impact of dietary inclusion of chokeberry pomace on oxidative stress parameters and other milk quality parameters in high-producing dairy goats.

Material and methods: Twenty-seven goats were allocated into three groups: a control group provided standard feed and two experimental groups provided feed supplemented with 15 g or 30 g of chokeberry pomace per kilogram. Milk samples were analysed for physicochemical traits, a range of enzyme activities and antioxidant properties.

Results: Supplementation with chokeberry pomace significantly reduced milk fat content, enhanced antioxidative properties and increased most of the quantified enzyme activities. Total polyphenol content and reduced glutathione levels were significantly higher in the supplemented groups, correlating with improved antioxidative potential of the milk.

Conclusion: Chokeberry pomace in goat diets enhances milk's antioxidative properties and upregulates its enzymatic activity profile, suggesting a potential strategy to improve the nutritional quality and health benefits of goat milk. The study underscores the utility of chokeberry pomace as a feed additive that might not only benefit animal health but also contribute to enhanced milk quality.