Proximate and Mineral Compositions of Different Raw Cow’s Milks in Minna

Abstract

Proximate and mineral compositions of different raw cow’s milk in Minna environs of Niger State, Nigeria were determined using standard methods and EDRXF spectrophotometer. The moisture content ranged between 7.51-8.32%, the ash content 4.40- 13.13%, fat content 27.55-34.59% crude protein 30.38-42.72% and carbohydrate 9.10-22.27 % respectively. For mineral composition, the calcium content ranged between 200.10- 2830.50mg/100g, potassium between 1065.50-1611.40mg/100g, Mn between 12.70-13.70mg/100g, Fe 40.70-73.80mg/100g, Cu 45.00- 56.60mg/100g, Zn 41.70-66.70mg/100g, Ni 50.70- 56.80mg/100g, Se Nd-6.40mg/100g, Cl 139.90-444.40mg/100g, 997.50-1910.00mg/100g and Br 1.40-6.10mg/100g respectively. The statistical analysis of the obtained results at 95% confidence indicated that there were significant differences in the proximate and mineral compositions of the milk samples studied, with samples which were not exposed to open grazing having better proximate parameters, high micro minerals content and less concentration of trace metals.