Composición de la leche frente a ambientes productivos ganaderos de pequeños productores, parroquia Mariano Moreno-Cantón Gualaceo

Abstract

This research aimed to relate the quality of raw milk produced by small producers in the parish of Mariano Moreno-Gualaceo Canton through production indicators. Therefore, 410 milk samples were taken from 24 production systems. They were characterized in relation to their environment and management. A morning schedule was established for sampling, and the Master Eco Milk Tester analyzer was used repeatedly with a sample temperature that ranged between 15°C and 20°C, determining values for % Fat, % Lactose, % NMS, % Protein, % Density, and % Freezing Point to analyze the samples under refrigeration from 30 to 180 minutes. The animals met the characteristics of small Andean production systems, with low yields of 5.26 liters (+/-2.51) and technical, management, and feeding problems that limit productivity. Milk composition quality results were high for the quality variables, and their variability is related to the environment. Within the composition, fat % excelled, with an average value of 3.24% and a CV of 47.08%, coinciding with previous studies on the relationship between climate and grazing systems. The milk produced in the parish meets the quality standards required in the country; improving some management parameters would be the basis for obtaining a product of differentiated value due to its origin. Keywords: % Fat, Environment, Master Eco Milk Tester, Management, Origin