Mineral Profiles in Blood and Milk of Sheep

Ranjith D., Pandey J. K.

Abstract: The present study was carried out to assess the mineral composition of blood and milk of sheep grazing in similar pasture. The study focused on levels of macrominerals (Ca, P, Mg, Na, K, and Cl) and microminerals (Cu, Co, Fe, Mn and Zn) in blood plasma and milk of ewes, Inter-relationship of minerals in blood plasma and milk and comparing the mineral content in blood and milk of sheep. The findings revealed that the macro and micro minerals were within normal physiological limits, but calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, zinc and potassium levels were lower and sodium and chloride levels were higher in the blood of sheep as compared to milk.

Keywords: macro-mineral, micro-mineral, blood plasma, milk, sheep,