Pig milk

From WikiMD's Food, Medicine & Wellness Encyclopedia

Pig Milk is the milk produced by domestic sows (female pigs) to feed their piglets. It is not commonly consumed by humans due to the difficulty in obtaining it as well as its high fat content.

Composition[edit | edit source]

Pig milk is high in fat, with a composition similar to that of cow's milk. It contains approximately 8.5% fat, 3.9% protein, and 5.3% lactose. However, the composition can vary depending on the breed of pig and its diet.

Production[edit | edit source]

The production of pig milk is not a common practice due to several factors. Pigs are not as easily milked as cows or goats, and they produce a smaller quantity of milk. Additionally, sows are very protective of their piglets, making it difficult to milk them without causing stress.

Use in Dairy Products[edit | edit source]

While pig milk is not typically used in the production of dairy products, there have been instances of it being used to make cheese. However, this is not a widespread practice due to the difficulties in obtaining the milk and the high fat content, which can make the cheese overly rich.

Health Benefits and Risks[edit | edit source]

Pig milk is high in fat and protein, making it a good source of energy for piglets. However, its high fat content can make it less suitable for human consumption, particularly for those with dietary restrictions or health concerns related to fat intake. There is also a risk of disease transmission from pigs to humans, although this is relatively low with proper hygiene practices.

See Also[edit | edit source]


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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD