Changes in the Physicochemical and Microbiological Quality of Crossbred Goats Colostrum During four Days Postpartum

The colostrum consumed by newborn ruminants immediately after birth plays a crucial role in ensuring their long and healthy lives. It is their first nutrition, supporting growth, development, and immunity against diseases. The study involved eight goat crossbreeds of Saanen × Makatia and Saanen × Alpine goats, raised in the Ghardaia region, known for its arid climate. Colostrum samples were collected during four days after kidding. Each sample was subjected to the evaluation of the microbiological quality and the key physicochemical properties, including fat and protein content, pH, titratable acidity, density, conductivity, appearance, and colour. The results showed a decrease in fat and protein content from day one to day four in both goat populations, although the differences in the four-day averages were not significant. Acidity and density also followed a decreasing trend, with the difference in four-day averages being significant in the Saanen × Makatia group. In terms of pH, variation over the four days was not significant. Conductivity values increased consistently in both populations. Microbiological analysis revealed the absence of sulphite-reducing Clostridium, Salmonella, and yeasts in all samples. The counts of Staphylococcus aureus, total aerobic mesophilic flora, and total and faecal coliforms remained within acceptable limits for raw milk, indicating that the colostrum was of satisfactory microbiological quality.