Variation in Milk Composition and Fatty Acid Profile during the Lactation of Araucana Creole Ewes in a Pasture-Based System

摘要

The Araucana creole sheep is a local Chilean genetic resource and represents an important economic resource for the Mapuche ethnic group, who mainly use it for meat and wool production. In recent years, an interesting gourmet market has emerged for milk products derived from sheep’s milk. These products are highly valued because they come from sheep fed in systems based on pastures that are considered healthier than the diet of sheep fed indoors. Therefore, it is important to know the production and composition of Araucana creole ewe’s milk, which has not been studied. This information may provide an alternative for the diversification of sheep production by small farmers, contributing to the agricultural and cultural diversity of southern Chile.