Colostrum composition of Karya and Çine Çaparı sheep: Variations in fatty acid and protein profiles during early lactation

Colostrum, the first milk produced after birth, is rich in essential nutrients, bioactive compounds and growth factors, making it crucial for neonatal health. While extensive research has been conducted on bovine colostrum, studies on sheep colostrum, particularly from Turkish breeds such as Çine Çaparı and Karya, are limited. This study investigates the chemical properties, fatty acid profiles and protein profiles of colostrum from Karya and Çine Çaparı sheep over the first 5 days of postpartum. Colostrum samples were collected from 12 animals of each breed on the 1st, 3rd and 5th days after birth. Fatty acid profile analysis was performed, and protein profiles were assessed using Sodium Dodecyl-Sulfate Polyacrylamide Gel Electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE). A significant decrease in dry matter and protein content was observed from Day 1 to Day 5f (P < 0.05), while ash values showed no significant changes (P > 0.05). Saturated fatty acids (SFA) were predominant, with palmitic acid being the most abundant in all colostrum samples. The percentage of unsaturated fatty acids was notably higher in Çine Çaparı sheep on early sampling days, while Karya sheep exhibited higher levels of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs). Distinct protein profiles between the two breeds were observed, with total casein band intensities increasing from Day 1 to Day 5. Immunoglobulins and lactoferrin levels showed opposite trends in the two sheep breeds, declining from Day 1 to Day 5 in Karya sheep but increasing over the same period in Çine Çaparı sheep. In Çine Çaparı, β-lactoglobulin levels remained stable between Days 1 and 3 but increased on Day 5. The α-lactalbumin fraction showed a steady increase across the five-day period in both breeds. This research could drive innovation in functional foods and nutraceuticals, particularly for infant nutrition and health-related applications.