A Comparative Analysis of The Composition of Camel Milk From Thorny Natural Pastures in The Syrian Deir Ez-Zor Steppe And Semi-Intensive Systems in Hama

Abstract

This research aimed to study the composition of milk from camels that graze naturally on thorny plants in the Deir ez-Zor steppe and compare it to the composition of milk from camels raised under semi-intensive conditions in Hama, Syria. The average solids, protein, and lactose components of the Deir ez-Zor camel milk samples were higher than those of Hama samples, respectively (8.26% vs. 7.49%), (3.97% vs. 3.54%), and (3.71% vs. 3.36%). The fat content was similar, with little variation, in Deir ez-Zor milk. Mineral analysis revealed higher concentrations of calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, manganese, iron, zinc, copper, and selenium in Deir ez-Zor camel milk compared to Hama camel milk. This is typical for camels grazing in extensive pastoral areas rich in diverse and resilient vegetation in the harsh steppe environment. Analysis of the antioxidant vitamins A, C, E, D, and B (especially B2 and B3) in the camel milk of Deir ez-Zor showed significantly higher levels than in the camel milk of Hama. This underscores the importance of natural grazing on diverse thorny plants rich in oils, carotenoids, and flavonoids in enhancing the nutritional and potential therapeutic value of camel milk, particularly from free-range camels. This study highlights the crucial role of camels as a resilience factor for populations in arid and semi-arid regions, which are highly susceptible to climate changes. This necessitates the preservation of traditional Bedouin camel grazing systems in the Syrian steppe as a source of functional and nutrient-rich camel milk with other potential health benefits.