Structural shift in the milk composition of cattle with increase in cross-bred species in Punjab -Time to revise milk standards

The present study was conducted to gauge the significant changes that have come in the composition of milk obtained from cattle species in Punjab over a period of time. Milk standards that have been followed in the state no more reflect the actual milk quality and composition. Greater prevalence of exotic strains of cattle have undoubtedly increased the total milk production in the state but there had been an associated decline in the Fat/SNF (Solid not fat) levels of milk as compared to the indigenous breeds. Based on a field survey conducted in Bathinda, Gurdaspur and Ludhiana districts of Punjab state during July 2013 to April 2014, the fat and SNF content of commercially predominant Holstein Friesien (H.F) breed of cross bred cattle were found to be lower than the milk standards which were fixed soon after independence when India had only indigenous cattle breed. The emerging disparity between the milk standards set by the central government and the actual milk composition of cross bred cattle obtained at the farmers’ level in the state present a strong case for revisiting the existing milk standards.