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Prof. Mina Martini
Università di Pisa

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0 Nutritional and nutraceutical quality
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Review
Published: 13 May 2021 in Animals
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The increase of knowledge on the composition of donkey milk has revealed marked similarities to human milk, which led to a growing number of investigations focused on testing the potential effects of donkey milk in vitro and in vivo. This paper examines the scientific evidence regarding the beneficial effects of donkey milk on human health. Most clinical studies report a tolerability of donkey milk in 82.6–98.5% of infants with cow milk protein allergies. The average protein content of donkey milk is about 18 g/L. Caseins, which are main allergenic components of milk, are less represented compared to cow milk (56% of the total protein in donkey vs. 80% in cow milk). Donkey milk is well accepted by children due to its high concentration of lactose (about 60 g/L). Immunomodulatory properties have been reported in one study in humans and in several animal models. Donkey milk also seems to modulate the intestinal microbiota, enhance antioxidant defense mechanisms and detoxifying enzymes activities, reduce hyperglycemia and normalize dyslipidemia. Donkey milk has lower calorie and fat content compared with other milks used in human nutrition (fat ranges from 0.20% to 1.7%) and a more favourable fatty acid profile, being low in saturated fatty acids (3.02 g/L) and high in alpha-linolenic acid (about 7.25 g/100 g of fat). Until now, the beneficial properties of donkey milk have been mostly related to whey proteins, among which β-lactoglobulin is the most represented (6.06 g/L), followed by α-lactalbumin (about 2 g/L) and lysozyme (1.07 g/L). So far, the health functionality of donkey milk has been tested almost exclusively on animal models. Furthermore, in vitro studies have described inhibitory action against bacteria, viruses, and fungi. From the literature review emerges the need for new randomized clinical trials on humans to provide stronger evidence of the potential beneficial health effects of donkey milk, which could lead to new applications as an adjuvant in the treatment of cardiometabolic diseases, malnutrition, and aging.

ACS Style

Mina Martini; Iolanda Altomonte; Domenico Tricò; Riccardo Lapenta; Federica Salari. Current Knowledge on Functionality and Potential Therapeutic Uses of Donkey Milk. Animals 2021, 11, 1382 .

AMA Style

Mina Martini, Iolanda Altomonte, Domenico Tricò, Riccardo Lapenta, Federica Salari. Current Knowledge on Functionality and Potential Therapeutic Uses of Donkey Milk. Animals. 2021; 11 (5):1382.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Mina Martini; Iolanda Altomonte; Domenico Tricò; Riccardo Lapenta; Federica Salari. 2021. "Current Knowledge on Functionality and Potential Therapeutic Uses of Donkey Milk." Animals 11, no. 5: 1382.

Journal article
Published: 22 January 2021 in Pathogens
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Donkeys may be susceptible to many pathological agents and may act as carriers of pathogens for other animal species and humans. This study evaluated the occurrence of potentially abortifacient apicomplexan protozoa DNA in blood and milk samples collected at different time periods during lactation (1, 6, and 10 months) from 33 healthy dairy jennies. A total of 73 blood and 73 milk samples were used for DNA extraction and analysis. Blood specimens from 11/33 (33%) jennies scored positive for Theileria equi, while milk samples scored negative. Blood and milk of 3/33 jennies yielded DNA of Toxoplasma gondii at 6 months (n. 1) and 10 months (n. 2) after parturition. Neospora caninum DNA was found in four milk and in five blood samples only at one month after parturition. This study is the first report about the presence of N. caninum DNA in milk of naturally infected jennies. Moreover, the excretion of N. caninum DNA in some of these jennies at 30 days from the parturition may suggest a possible occurrence of an endogenous cycle, while the presence of T. gondii DNA in the milk collected at 6 and 10 months after parturition may be suggestive of a discontinuous excretion.

ACS Style

Stefania Perrucci; Lisa Guardone; Iolanda Altomonte; Federica Salari; Simona Nardoni; Mina Martini; Francesca Mancianti. Apicomplexan Protozoa Responsible for Reproductive Disorders: Occurrence of DNA in Blood and Milk of Donkeys (Equus asinus) and Minireview of the Related Literature. Pathogens 2021, 10, 111 .

AMA Style

Stefania Perrucci, Lisa Guardone, Iolanda Altomonte, Federica Salari, Simona Nardoni, Mina Martini, Francesca Mancianti. Apicomplexan Protozoa Responsible for Reproductive Disorders: Occurrence of DNA in Blood and Milk of Donkeys (Equus asinus) and Minireview of the Related Literature. Pathogens. 2021; 10 (2):111.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Stefania Perrucci; Lisa Guardone; Iolanda Altomonte; Federica Salari; Simona Nardoni; Mina Martini; Francesca Mancianti. 2021. "Apicomplexan Protozoa Responsible for Reproductive Disorders: Occurrence of DNA in Blood and Milk of Donkeys (Equus asinus) and Minireview of the Related Literature." Pathogens 10, no. 2: 111.

Journal article
Published: 02 December 2020 in Veterinary Sciences
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Intestinal strongyles are common helminths of donkeys, in which they may be responsible for disease and poor performance. This study aimed to identify intestinal strongyle genera in 55 naturally infected donkeys from three different farm typologies in Tuscany, central Italy, using morphological and metrical analysis of third stage larvae (L3) obtained from faecal cultures. Larvae were identified using two previous reported morphological identification keys. Moreover, eggs per gram (EPG) data were also evaluated to assess differences, if any, according to the farm typology, sex, and age of the examined donkeys. The results showed that small strongyles were prevalent in all donkey farms. In all examined farms, most (92–100%) of L3 were identified as cyathostomin species of the genera Cylicocyclus spp. and Cylicostephanus spp. Large strongyles of the genera Strongylus spp. and Triodontophorus spp., were identified at low percentage (8%), only in the single organic farm included in the study. A high agreement was observed between the two different morphometric keys used. No significant differences were found for EPG according to farm typology, and sex and age from the examined donkeys. This is the first report about genera identification of intestinal strongyles infecting donkeys in Tuscany, Italy.

ACS Style

Michela Maestrini; Marcelo Beltrão Molento; Simone Mancini; Mina Martini; Francesco Giovanni Salvo Angeletti; Stefania Perrucci. Intestinal Strongyle Genera in Different Typology of Donkey Farms in Tuscany, Central Italy. Veterinary Sciences 2020, 7, 195 .

AMA Style

Michela Maestrini, Marcelo Beltrão Molento, Simone Mancini, Mina Martini, Francesco Giovanni Salvo Angeletti, Stefania Perrucci. Intestinal Strongyle Genera in Different Typology of Donkey Farms in Tuscany, Central Italy. Veterinary Sciences. 2020; 7 (4):195.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Michela Maestrini; Marcelo Beltrão Molento; Simone Mancini; Mina Martini; Francesco Giovanni Salvo Angeletti; Stefania Perrucci. 2020. "Intestinal Strongyle Genera in Different Typology of Donkey Farms in Tuscany, Central Italy." Veterinary Sciences 7, no. 4: 195.

Journal article
Published: 25 October 2019 in Livestock Science
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Interest in donkey milk for human nutrition has been growing steadily, especially in the therapeutic-diet field, due to its similarity to human milk. Caseins are one of the main allergenic components of milk. Whereas cow milk has a high casein content, in donkey milk the casein concentration is lower and is characterized by a greater digestibility. In fact, recent studies have shown that donkey milk can be consumed by children with cow milk protein allergy. The aim of this study was to evaluate the protein profile of individual samples of Amiata donkey milk and to quantify the different protein fractions in order to better understand the characteristics of donkey milk. Protein fractions of 57 individual whole milk samples were analysed by isoelectric focusing (IEF). The main milk protein fractions were quantified both by IEF gel image analysis and directly on milk using the Agilent 2100 Bioanalyzer. The IEF analysis identified 10 different electrophoretic patterns, which differ from each other in terms of the presence of bands that correspond to homozygous or heterozygous genotypes, as well as the presence/absence of specific protein bands. In addition the quantification of different caseins (αS1, β and κ-CN) and whey proteins (β-LG, α-LA and LZ), highlighted a significant phenotypic variability among individuals which seems to be related to the patterns identified. In particular, different casein:whey protein ratios were identified among jennies and this is known to affect the nutritional, allergenic and technological properties of milk. These findings could be useful in the selection of donkeys with specific milk protein polymorphisms.

ACS Style

Rosario Licitra; Stefania Chessa; Federica Salari; Stefano Gattolin; Omar Bulgari; Iolanda Altomonte; Mina Martini. Milk protein polymorphism in Amiata donkey. Livestock Science 2019, 230, 103845 .

AMA Style

Rosario Licitra, Stefania Chessa, Federica Salari, Stefano Gattolin, Omar Bulgari, Iolanda Altomonte, Mina Martini. Milk protein polymorphism in Amiata donkey. Livestock Science. 2019; 230 ():103845.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Rosario Licitra; Stefania Chessa; Federica Salari; Stefano Gattolin; Omar Bulgari; Iolanda Altomonte; Mina Martini. 2019. "Milk protein polymorphism in Amiata donkey." Livestock Science 230, no. : 103845.

Journal article
Published: 12 October 2019 in Small Ruminant Research
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Feeding is an important factor that affects the quality of animal products and also has a major impact on regional and local dairy products in terms of origin and quality. This study investigated the effects of pasture on nutritional characteristics and volatile components of sheep's milk, yoghurt and cheese produced in central Italy. During two grazing seasons (winter and spring) aliquots of fodder, yoghurt, fresh cheese and the corresponding ripened cheese were taken and analysed in relation to nutritional composition and volatile compounds. The grazing season influenced the chemical composition of the sheep's milk and dairy products, giving the cheese from the spring pasture a significantly higher dry matter content (61.26% vs 52.85%). Spring dairy products were also significantly higher in calcium (milk 0.40% vs 0.19%; yoghurt 0.23% vs 0.18%; cheese 0.64% vs 0.41%), while milk and cheese had significantly higher omega-3 fatty acids (milk 1.05 vs 1.61⿿g/100⿿g of total fatty acids; cheese 1.09 vs 1.76⿿g/100⿿g of total fatty acids) especially cis-9, cis-12, cis-15 C18:3 (milk 1.31 vs 0.66⿿g/100⿿g of total fatty acids; cheese 1.43 vs 0.70⿿g/100⿿g of total fatty acids). Spring cheese also contained more than twice the amount of trans-11 C18:1 (2.92 vs 1.20⿿g/100⿿g of total fatty acids) compared to the winter cheese. The higher linolenic acid and omega-3 content in milk were presumably related to the higher content of linolenic acid in the pasture. Of the 16 terpenes detected in pasture, α-pinene, β-myrcene, α-terpinene, limonene, α -cubebene were also observed in yoghurt, while alpha terpinene and limonene were detected in cheese. Neither the terpene profile of the yoghurt nor that of the cheese showed significant variations according to the season or ripening. In addition in the cheese, the spring pasture led to an increase in the number of components responsible for alcoholic and floral notes (esters, alcohols) and a reduction of components linked to a cheesy sharp aroma (acids).

ACS Style

Iolanda Altomonte; Giuseppe Conte; Andrea Serra; Marcello Mele; Luca Cannizzo; Federica Salari; Mina Martini. Nutritional characteristics and volatile components of sheep milk products during two grazing seasons. Small Ruminant Research 2019, 180, 41 -49.

AMA Style

Iolanda Altomonte, Giuseppe Conte, Andrea Serra, Marcello Mele, Luca Cannizzo, Federica Salari, Mina Martini. Nutritional characteristics and volatile components of sheep milk products during two grazing seasons. Small Ruminant Research. 2019; 180 ():41-49.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Iolanda Altomonte; Giuseppe Conte; Andrea Serra; Marcello Mele; Luca Cannizzo; Federica Salari; Mina Martini. 2019. "Nutritional characteristics and volatile components of sheep milk products during two grazing seasons." Small Ruminant Research 180, no. : 41-49.

Journal article
Published: 25 September 2019 in The Open Food Science Journal
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ACS Style

Mina Martini. The Rediscovery of Donkey's Milk as Healthy Food for Different Life Stages. The Open Food Science Journal 2019, 11, 87 -88.

AMA Style

Mina Martini. The Rediscovery of Donkey's Milk as Healthy Food for Different Life Stages. The Open Food Science Journal. 2019; 11 (1):87-88.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Mina Martini. 2019. "The Rediscovery of Donkey's Milk as Healthy Food for Different Life Stages." The Open Food Science Journal 11, no. 1: 87-88.

Journal article
Published: 17 August 2019 in Italian Journal of Pediatrics
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The therapeutic strategy for children with cow’s milk allergy (CMA) consists in the elimination of cow’s milk (CM) from their diet. Donkey’s milk (DM) has been reported to be an adequate alternative, mainly to his nutritional similarities with human milk (HM) and excellent palatability. The aim of present prospective study was to evaluate the nutritional impact of DM on the diet of children with CMA in term of children growth. Before the nutritional trial on children and during the study the health and hygiene risks and nutritional and nutraceuticals parameters of DM were monitored. Children with CMA were identified by the execution of in vivo and in vitro tests for CM and subsequent assessment of tolerability of DM with oral food challenge (OFC). Finally, we prescribed DM to a selected group of patients for a period of 6 months during which we monitored the growth of children. A total of 81 children, 70 with IgE mediated cow’s milk protein allergy (IgE-CMPA) and 11 with Food Protein Induced Enterocolitis Syndrome to CM (CM-FPIES), were enrolled. Seventy-eight out of 81 patients underwent the OFC with DM and only one patient with IgE-CMPA (1.5 %) reacted. Twenty-two out of 81 patients took part of the nutritional trial. All the 22 patients took and tolerated the DM, moreover DM did not change the normal growth rate of infants. In conclusion, DM resulted safe in term of health and hygiene risks and nutritionally adequate: no negative impact on the normal growth rate of children was assessed. Therefore, it may be a suitable alternative for the management of IgE mediated CMA and FPIES, also in the first 6 months of life, if adequately supplemented.

ACS Style

Lucrezia Sarti; Mina Martini; Giovanni Brajon; Simona Barni; Federica Salari; Iolanda Altomonte; Giuseppe Ragona; Francesca Mori; Neri Pucci; Giada Muscas; Fina Belli; Franco Corrias; Elio Novembre. Donkey’s Milk in the Management of Children with Cow’s Milk protein allergy: nutritional and hygienic aspects. Italian Journal of Pediatrics 2019, 45, 1 -9.

AMA Style

Lucrezia Sarti, Mina Martini, Giovanni Brajon, Simona Barni, Federica Salari, Iolanda Altomonte, Giuseppe Ragona, Francesca Mori, Neri Pucci, Giada Muscas, Fina Belli, Franco Corrias, Elio Novembre. Donkey’s Milk in the Management of Children with Cow’s Milk protein allergy: nutritional and hygienic aspects. Italian Journal of Pediatrics. 2019; 45 (1):1-9.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Lucrezia Sarti; Mina Martini; Giovanni Brajon; Simona Barni; Federica Salari; Iolanda Altomonte; Giuseppe Ragona; Francesca Mori; Neri Pucci; Giada Muscas; Fina Belli; Franco Corrias; Elio Novembre. 2019. "Donkey’s Milk in the Management of Children with Cow’s Milk protein allergy: nutritional and hygienic aspects." Italian Journal of Pediatrics 45, no. 1: 1-9.

Journal article
Published: 23 July 2019 in LWT
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Animal milk oligosaccharides can be used as bioactive ingredients in functional foods and infant milk formulas. Donkey milk is already considered a functional food and a possible substitute for human milk. The aim of this study was to identify the structure and abundance of sialylated milk oligosaccharides from five Amiata donkeys during four different stages of early lactation. Liquid chromatography combined with mass spectrometry analysis led to the identification and quantification of seven sialylated oligosaccharides: 3-sialyllactose, 6-sialyllactose, sialyllacto-N-tetraose a, sialyllacto-N-tetraose b, sialyllacto-N-tetraose c, Neu5Ac(α2–3) + Gal(β1–4)GlcNAc(β1–6)(Gal(β1–3))Gal(β1–4)Glc and Neu5Ac(α2–6) + Gal(β1–4)GlcNAc(β1–6)(Gal(β1–3))Gal(β1–4)Glc. The latter five oligosaccharides were identified in donkey milk for the first time. The most abundant sialylated oligosaccharide found was 6-sialyllactose. In addition, variations in the content of four oligosaccharides were highlighted over the experimental period: the highest values were found at 15 days of lactation, and the lowest at 60 days.

ACS Style

Rosario Licitra; Jiaqi Li; Xinmiao Liang; Iolanda Altomonte; Federica Salari; Jingyu Yan; Mina Martini. Profile and content of sialylated oligosaccharides in donkey milk at early lactation. LWT 2019, 115, 108437 .

AMA Style

Rosario Licitra, Jiaqi Li, Xinmiao Liang, Iolanda Altomonte, Federica Salari, Jingyu Yan, Mina Martini. Profile and content of sialylated oligosaccharides in donkey milk at early lactation. LWT. 2019; 115 ():108437.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Rosario Licitra; Jiaqi Li; Xinmiao Liang; Iolanda Altomonte; Federica Salari; Jingyu Yan; Mina Martini. 2019. "Profile and content of sialylated oligosaccharides in donkey milk at early lactation." LWT 115, no. : 108437.

Brief report
Published: 09 July 2019 in Pathogens
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Leishmania parasites are considered to be emergent zoonotic pathogens, which is a new concept regarding their epidemiology and the identification of novel animal hosts. The present study is the first in Italy to evaluate anti Leishmania seroprevalence, and the first in Europe to detect parasite DNA in donkeys' blood. The study was performed on jennies living in a Leishmania infantum endemic area of Central Italy. One hundred and ten blood samples were obtained from 67 healthy lactating Amiatina jennies that were semi-extensively reared in Tuscany. When possible, more than one sample was subsequently obtained from the same subject. All samples were processed by immunofluorescence antibody test (IFAT) and by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). For the results, 11 out of 30 animals (36.7%) showed positive scores under IFAT. In addition, 22 out of the other 37 jennies had positive scores, also. The animals showed titers ranging from 40 to 320. Furthermore, 2 subjects that were submitted for 2 and 3 blood samplings, both had more than one positive score. Moreover, 2 seropositive animals were positive for Leishmania DNA. Donkeys are considered to be a preferred source for a sandfly blood meal, even if clinical leishmaniosis has never been reported in Europe for this animal species. In the view of these facts, our preliminary findings would suggest the role of donkey as a potential reservoir for this protozoan agent. Additional studies would be welcome to elucidate the role of the donkey in Leishmania epidemiology of CanL endemic areas and to confirm the preliminary findings and the hypothesis proposed here.

ACS Style

Simona Nardoni; Iolanda Altomonte; Federica Salari; Mina Martini; Francesca Mancianti. Serological and Molecular Findings of Leishmania Infection in Healthy Donkeys (Equus asinus) from a Canine Leishmaniosis Endemic Focus in Tuscany, Italy: A Preliminary Report. Pathogens 2019, 8, 99 .

AMA Style

Simona Nardoni, Iolanda Altomonte, Federica Salari, Mina Martini, Francesca Mancianti. Serological and Molecular Findings of Leishmania Infection in Healthy Donkeys (Equus asinus) from a Canine Leishmaniosis Endemic Focus in Tuscany, Italy: A Preliminary Report. Pathogens. 2019; 8 (3):99.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Simona Nardoni; Iolanda Altomonte; Federica Salari; Mina Martini; Francesca Mancianti. 2019. "Serological and Molecular Findings of Leishmania Infection in Healthy Donkeys (Equus asinus) from a Canine Leishmaniosis Endemic Focus in Tuscany, Italy: A Preliminary Report." Pathogens 8, no. 3: 99.

Journal article
Published: 30 April 2019 in International Dairy Journal
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Lysozyme activity of donkey milk in relation to the lactation stage, age of the animals and pasteurisation treatment was studied. Raw and pasteurised bulk milk samples were collected monthly for one year and were analysed in relation to lysozyme activity. Individual raw milk samples were collected from 12 jennies, at three lactation stages: three, six and nine months. The results showed that the lactation stage and the age of the animals influenced the lysozyme activity of donkey milk. The highest lysozyme activity values were found at early lactation and in animals older than 15 years. We confirm that low-temperature long-time pasteurisation of donkey milk does not reduce the activity of this enzyme. In addition, calcium, ash and some fatty acids, and, in particular, the saturated fatty acids, are linked to a higher lysozyme activity of donkey milk at early lactation.

ACS Style

Mina Martini; Federica Salari; Rosario Licitra; Concettina La Motta; Iolanda Altomonte. Lysozyme activity in donkey milk. International Dairy Journal 2019, 96, 98 -101.

AMA Style

Mina Martini, Federica Salari, Rosario Licitra, Concettina La Motta, Iolanda Altomonte. Lysozyme activity in donkey milk. International Dairy Journal. 2019; 96 ():98-101.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Mina Martini; Federica Salari; Rosario Licitra; Concettina La Motta; Iolanda Altomonte. 2019. "Lysozyme activity in donkey milk." International Dairy Journal 96, no. : 98-101.

Review article
Published: 11 October 2018 in International Dairy Journal
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This paper reviews the main research results on donkey milk quality to highlight the nutritional similarities with human milk, the gold standard for infant feeding. The major differences between donkey and human milk are related to the fat yield, which thus means that quantitative and qualitative supplements are needed in pre-weaned children. The two milks are similar in terms of total protein content and amino acid profile. In addition, both donkey and human milk are poor in casein and rich in lactose and also share a similar unsaturated:saturated fatty acid ratio and cholesterol, sodium, potassium and vitamin C content. The triglyceride profile is also similar. Donkey milk seems to be a promising alternative food targeted at children's health. New, well-designed clinical studies in children and other sensitive groups are needed to examine in depth the clinical and metabolic outcomes and the potential positive health impacts.

ACS Style

Iolanda Altomonte; Federica Salari; Rosario Licitra; Mina Martini. Donkey and human milk: Insights into their compositional similarities. International Dairy Journal 2018, 89, 111 -118.

AMA Style

Iolanda Altomonte, Federica Salari, Rosario Licitra, Mina Martini. Donkey and human milk: Insights into their compositional similarities. International Dairy Journal. 2018; 89 ():111-118.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Iolanda Altomonte; Federica Salari; Rosario Licitra; Mina Martini. 2018. "Donkey and human milk: Insights into their compositional similarities." International Dairy Journal 89, no. : 111-118.

Journal article
Published: 01 October 2018 in Journal of Dairy Science
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Vitamin D is an essential nutrient that plays a crucial role in calcium homeostasis and bone metabolism and also acts as a hormone. Although several studies on the content of vitamin D in bovine milk have been conducted, little information is available regarding donkey milk. In the context of the nutritional assessment of donkey milk, the aim of this study was to assess the vitamin D content in donkey milk and its chemical profile, with particular reference to seasonal and technological modifications after pasteurization. The study was conducted on a dairy farm that produces donkey milk for human consumption located in central Italy. At sampling time, an aliquot of total bulk milk production was sampled before and after pasteurization (63°C for 30 min without homogenization) with a total of 20 raw and 20 pasteurized milk samples. The samples were collected for 10 mo, every 15 d, from May to February 2017. All the samples were analyzed for the chemical composition and vitamin D2 and D3 content by HPLC after saponification. The donkey milk analyzed showed a higher average vitamin D content (raw milk: vitamin D2 = 1.68, vitamin D3 = 0.60 μg/100 mL; pasteurized milk: vitamin D2 = 1.38, vitamin D3 = 0.30 μg/100 mL) than reported for bovine and human milk. The results of the effect of pasteurization on milk did not highlight significant differences in the total content of vitamin D. However, vitamin D3 has a poor thermal stability, which led to a significant reduction in content in pasteurized milk compared with raw milk. The total vitamin D content of donkey milk did not show significant variations between seasons; however, a higher concentration of vitamin D3 was found in spring and summer. In conclusion, raw and pasteurized donkey milk showed a high content of vitamin D, which could be useful in meeting the deficiencies of this vitamin in humans. Further investigations are needed to improve the vitamin D content in donkey milk by increasing its endogenous synthesis or its transfer in milk and to clarify other variability factors.

ACS Style

Mina Martini; Iolanda Altomonte; Rosario Licitra; Federica Salari. Short communication: Technological and seasonal variations of vitamin D and other nutritional components in donkey milk. Journal of Dairy Science 2018, 101, 8721 -8725.

AMA Style

Mina Martini, Iolanda Altomonte, Rosario Licitra, Federica Salari. Short communication: Technological and seasonal variations of vitamin D and other nutritional components in donkey milk. Journal of Dairy Science. 2018; 101 (10):8721-8725.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Mina Martini; Iolanda Altomonte; Rosario Licitra; Federica Salari. 2018. "Short communication: Technological and seasonal variations of vitamin D and other nutritional components in donkey milk." Journal of Dairy Science 101, no. 10: 8721-8725.

Journal article
Published: 22 August 2018 in Journal of Dairy Research
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Until now there are only few data on the effects of thermal treatments on the nutritional and hygienic characteristics of donkey milk. This Research Communication aims to provide information on the effects of pasteurization (at +65 °C for 30 min) and prolonged storage at refrigeration and freezing temperatures (21 d at + 3 °C ± 2 °C and up to 90 d at −20 °C ± 5 °C) on some nutritional and hygienic characteristics of Amiata donkey milk. The milk was monitored by chemical and microbiological analysis. Pasteurization ensured compliance with EC Regulation No 1441/2007, as Enterobacteriaceae were never found in the milk, or during storage at refrigeration and freezing temperatures. Colony count at 30 °C in pasteurized milk never went beyond 1 log CFU/ml. The heat treatment and the storage did not result in any variations in the main constituents of the milk. Only a decrease in lactose and few variations in some fatty acids at 90 d of freezing were observed. In conclusion, pasteurization was able to achieve and maintain a high hygienic-sanitary quality over time; storage at refrigeration or freezing temperatures did not alter the nutritional quality of fat and the gross composition of the product. These findings are useful to improve knowledge on the milk shelf life in order to guarantee safety and nutritional quality for infants who need small quantities of daily milk.

ACS Style

Mina Martini; Federica Salari; Iolanda Altomonte; Giuseppe Ragona; Alice Piazza; Roberta Gori; Daniela Casati; Giovanni Brajon. Effects of pasteurization and storage conditions on donkey milk nutritional and hygienic characteristics. Journal of Dairy Research 2018, 85, 445 -448.

AMA Style

Mina Martini, Federica Salari, Iolanda Altomonte, Giuseppe Ragona, Alice Piazza, Roberta Gori, Daniela Casati, Giovanni Brajon. Effects of pasteurization and storage conditions on donkey milk nutritional and hygienic characteristics. Journal of Dairy Research. 2018; 85 (4):445-448.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Mina Martini; Federica Salari; Iolanda Altomonte; Giuseppe Ragona; Alice Piazza; Roberta Gori; Daniela Casati; Giovanni Brajon. 2018. "Effects of pasteurization and storage conditions on donkey milk nutritional and hygienic characteristics." Journal of Dairy Research 85, no. 4: 445-448.

Journal article
Published: 01 June 2018 in Journal of Equine Veterinary Science
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In the last few decades, there has been a renewed interest in donkeys by the scientific community involved in the recovery of biodiversity, in the rescue of some donkey breeds that have become almost extinct, and in the rediscovery of donkey milk. In addition, due to the increase in food allergies, attention has been focused on the need for a “natural” milk with a good taste, which could be used in some childhood illnesses such as allergy to cow's milk protein allergy (CMPA). Donkey milk is very similar to human milk, especially in terms of its protein profile and lactose content, which increases palatability, stimulates intestinal absorption of calcium, and thus provides an excellent substrate for the development of enteric flora. The high content of lysozyme in this milk favors selective action against pathogenic microorganisms. In addition, the mineral content (such as calcium) and liposoluble vitamins make it an excellent nutraceutical product. A project aimed to create a donkey milk supply chain from the Amiata native breed has recently been developed in Central Italy (Tuscany). In this paper, the nutritional and nutraceutical characteristics of donkey milk are reviewed in detail. In addition, some of the potential uses of donkey milk have been briefly described: in the diet of children with CMPA, in the diets of the elderly and of people who need to lose weight by virtue of the low-fat content, and the good contribution of omega 3.

ACS Style

Mina Martini; Iolanda Altomonte; Rosario Licitra; Federica Salari. Nutritional and Nutraceutical Quality of Donkey Milk. Journal of Equine Veterinary Science 2018, 65, 33 -37.

AMA Style

Mina Martini, Iolanda Altomonte, Rosario Licitra, Federica Salari. Nutritional and Nutraceutical Quality of Donkey Milk. Journal of Equine Veterinary Science. 2018; 65 ():33-37.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Mina Martini; Iolanda Altomonte; Rosario Licitra; Federica Salari. 2018. "Nutritional and Nutraceutical Quality of Donkey Milk." Journal of Equine Veterinary Science 65, no. : 33-37.

Review
Published: 15 May 2018 in Livestock Science
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Microalgae are photoautotroph unicellular or multicellular microorganisms which are smaller than 400 μm and can be used as an animal feed source. Ruminants seem to be promising targets of this new feedstuff, as they can also use non-protein nitrogens present in algae and digest the cell walls of algal organisms. Despite the potential for use of microalgae in ruminant feeding, to our knowledge the applications are still limited and there are no reviews in the literature on the effects of microalgae on milk yield and quality. This paper reviews the studies on the use of microalgae for dairy ruminant feeding in order to provide complete information on the state of the art, limitations, and their potential use. The major effects of microalgae on milk production are the changes in the milk fatty acid profile, especially related to the long chain fatty acids and the omega 3 series, in particular DHA and EPA which are beneficial for human health. These results are interesting as to date attempts to increase the omega 3 content in milk by feeding have led to limited results, since PUFA biohydrogenation in the rumen is massive. However, excessive algal supplementation might negatively impacts on palatability, feed intake, the ruminal metabolism and may have negative effecs on milk production and fat. In conclusion, careful attention should be paied in terms of the amount of algae supplemented and ruminoprotected forms should be considered in order to prevent reductions in the feed intake, and a deterioration in milk yield and quality. Further reseach is needed to identify the more appropriate species/feed and the effects of a prolonged supplementation.

ACS Style

Iolanda Altomonte; Federica Salari; Rosario Licitra; Mina Martini. Use of microalgae in ruminant nutrition and implications on milk quality – A review. Livestock Science 2018, 214, 25 -35.

AMA Style

Iolanda Altomonte, Federica Salari, Rosario Licitra, Mina Martini. Use of microalgae in ruminant nutrition and implications on milk quality – A review. Livestock Science. 2018; 214 ():25-35.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Iolanda Altomonte; Federica Salari; Rosario Licitra; Mina Martini. 2018. "Use of microalgae in ruminant nutrition and implications on milk quality – A review." Livestock Science 214, no. : 25-35.

Review
Published: 20 November 2017 in Italian Journal of Animal Science
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Milk is recognised as an important element of the pastoral civilisations in Africa, where it has not only an economic value, but also a social and cultural value. The objective of this review is to identify the main African dairy products, mainly focussing on typical production processes based on the use of local animal resources. To this aim, dairy products were classified into five categories, according to the type and the production method: fresh cheese, ripened cheese, fermented milk, butter and dairy by-products. These categories give rise to an extraordinary range of local products where tradition, culture, and environmental conditions and constraints play a major role in contributing to this diversification. In some countries, some attempts are being made in order to valorise the local dairy products by establishing Slow Food Presidia or including them in the Ark of Taste compiled by Slow Food. One of the main constraints that limits the commercialisation and export of African dairy products is related to the scarce hygiene in milk production and processing, and the frequent absence of starter cultures, which result in products with non-standardised characteristics, short shelf life and high spoilage susceptibility, with consequent risks for human health. Efforts should be made to support the dairy products chain in Africa, by making production processes safer and by valuing local resources, in order to expand the internal market and the export opportunities. Development cooperation projects may play an important role in this respect and should therefore be encouraged.

ACS Style

Silvana Mattiello; Mariangela Caroprese; Crovetto Gianni Matteo; Riccardo Fortina; Andrea Martini; Mina Martini; Giuliana Parisi; Claudia Russo; Massimo Zecchini; ASPA Commission “Animal Productions in Development Cooperation Projects”. Typical dairy products in Africa from local animal resources. Italian Journal of Animal Science 2017, 17, 740 -754.

AMA Style

Silvana Mattiello, Mariangela Caroprese, Crovetto Gianni Matteo, Riccardo Fortina, Andrea Martini, Mina Martini, Giuliana Parisi, Claudia Russo, Massimo Zecchini, ASPA Commission “Animal Productions in Development Cooperation Projects”. Typical dairy products in Africa from local animal resources. Italian Journal of Animal Science. 2017; 17 (3):740-754.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Silvana Mattiello; Mariangela Caroprese; Crovetto Gianni Matteo; Riccardo Fortina; Andrea Martini; Mina Martini; Giuliana Parisi; Claudia Russo; Massimo Zecchini; ASPA Commission “Animal Productions in Development Cooperation Projects”. 2017. "Typical dairy products in Africa from local animal resources." Italian Journal of Animal Science 17, no. 3: 740-754.

Book chapter
Published: 18 October 2017 in Microbiology in Dairy Processing
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In this chapter physico-chemical composition of milk lipids from different species is discussed. Fat content, fatty acids, milk fat globule diameter in large, small ruminants and equids are compared. Physico-chemical characteristics of lipids are discussed either form a nutritional point of view for the potential to influence human health or for the technological properties of the milk (cheese yield, rennetability).

ACS Style

Iolanda Altomonte; Federica Salari; Mina Martini. Milk fat components and milk quality. Microbiology in Dairy Processing 2017, 1 -10.

AMA Style

Iolanda Altomonte, Federica Salari, Mina Martini. Milk fat components and milk quality. Microbiology in Dairy Processing. 2017; ():1-10.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Iolanda Altomonte; Federica Salari; Mina Martini. 2017. "Milk fat components and milk quality." Microbiology in Dairy Processing , no. : 1-10.

Journal article
Published: 12 July 2017 in Italian Journal of Animal Science
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This review aims to identify the main typical non-dairy edible products of animal origin available in Africa, describing their production processes and their strengths and constraints. Farm animals are mainly raised in an extensive, family-run system; there is, however, a significant development of intensive poultry production. Meat products are usually obtained by drying, but meat and/or offal can also be stored as stuffed products and can be additionally treated by smoking and/or curing. The increasing poultry production provides eggs and meat at low price. The small-scale/family farms are managed mainly by women and children, with a positive social impact. The assets and limits of local breeds and of extensive versus semi-extensive or intensive production systems are discussed. Seafood are an essential source of proteins, minerals and micronutrients. Due its high perishability, the proportion of cured fish in this continent is higher than the world average. Wildlife can supply high-quality meat, but attention must be paid to the vulnerable/endangered species and to the sanitary aspects of this food chain. Insects are traditionally consumed in Africa, supplying very cheap highly nutritive food, with low environmental impact. Finally, a variety of honey and other bee products, including some Slow Food praesidia, are described. From the point of view of the respect of biodiversity and ecosystems, local culture, accessibility and nutritional requirements, animal productions in Africa are usually carried out in a sustainable way; however, the low efficiency of most traditional production systems represents an important limit, also in relation to export opportunities.

ACS Style

Silvana Mattiello; Mariangela Caroprese; Gianni Matteo Crovetto; Riccardo Fortina; Andrea Martini; Mina Martini; Giuliana Parisi; Claudia Russo; Carla Severini; Massimo Zecchini; (ASPA Commission ‘Animal productions in development cooperation projects’). Typical edible non-dairy animal products in Africa from local animal resources. Italian Journal of Animal Science 2017, 17, 202 -217.

AMA Style

Silvana Mattiello, Mariangela Caroprese, Gianni Matteo Crovetto, Riccardo Fortina, Andrea Martini, Mina Martini, Giuliana Parisi, Claudia Russo, Carla Severini, Massimo Zecchini, (ASPA Commission ‘Animal productions in development cooperation projects’). Typical edible non-dairy animal products in Africa from local animal resources. Italian Journal of Animal Science. 2017; 17 (1):202-217.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Silvana Mattiello; Mariangela Caroprese; Gianni Matteo Crovetto; Riccardo Fortina; Andrea Martini; Mina Martini; Giuliana Parisi; Claudia Russo; Carla Severini; Massimo Zecchini; (ASPA Commission ‘Animal productions in development cooperation projects’). 2017. "Typical edible non-dairy animal products in Africa from local animal resources." Italian Journal of Animal Science 17, no. 1: 202-217.

Journal article
Published: 01 July 2017 in Biocatalysis and Agricultural Biotechnology
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Microalgae-based systems for the production of high value molecules are an emergent area, representing a great\ud promise for industrial applications. The main challenge, however, is the development of high efficiency strategies\ud for the large-scale production at low costs. The aim of this study was to evaluate the potential of ricotta\ud cheese whey (scotta) to be used as a low-cost alternative substrate to grow the microalga Chlorella protothecoides.\ud Furthermore, a salt and light stress condition was imposed in order to improve the carotenogenesis process. A\ud significant reduction in lactose concentration was observed along the cultivation in the culture mediums containing\ud scotta, indicating that the tested C. protothecoides shifted to mixotrophic growth, using the organic carbon\ud source provided. Mixotrophic cultures presented a higher amount of biomass than the autotrophic one, however,\ud the cellular accumulation of chlorophyll and carotenoids was higher in the latter culture. Despite this, the stress\ud strategy that we applied enhanced carotenogenesis, allowing the cellular accumulation of well quoted carotenoids,\ud namely astaxanthin and lutein/zeaxanthin. The results suggest that scotta has a great potential to be\ud used as a culture medium to grow C. protothecoides. Moreover, through an adequate stress strategy it is possible\ud to control carotenogenesis, allowing the production of high amounts of the desirable high value molecules

ACS Style

José Evangelista Santos Ribeiro; Mina Martini; Iolanda Altomonte; Federica Salari; Simona Nardoni; Carlo Sorce; Flávio Luiz Honorato da Silva; Andrea Andreucci. Production of Chlorella protothecoides biomass, chlorophyll and carotenoids using the dairy industry by-product scotta as a substrate. Biocatalysis and Agricultural Biotechnology 2017, 11, 207 -213.

AMA Style

José Evangelista Santos Ribeiro, Mina Martini, Iolanda Altomonte, Federica Salari, Simona Nardoni, Carlo Sorce, Flávio Luiz Honorato da Silva, Andrea Andreucci. Production of Chlorella protothecoides biomass, chlorophyll and carotenoids using the dairy industry by-product scotta as a substrate. Biocatalysis and Agricultural Biotechnology. 2017; 11 ():207-213.

Chicago/Turabian Style

José Evangelista Santos Ribeiro; Mina Martini; Iolanda Altomonte; Federica Salari; Simona Nardoni; Carlo Sorce; Flávio Luiz Honorato da Silva; Andrea Andreucci. 2017. "Production of Chlorella protothecoides biomass, chlorophyll and carotenoids using the dairy industry by-product scotta as a substrate." Biocatalysis and Agricultural Biotechnology 11, no. : 207-213.

Journal article
Published: 31 March 2017 in Journal of Agricultural Engineering
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In Italy, donkey dairies are growing in popularity to produce an alternative milk source for human infants. The use of donkey milk is not limited to the paediatric field, being used in geriatric nutrition and in the cosmetic industry. In 2010, the Department of Veterinary Science, University of Pisa, was involved in a project supported by the Tuscany Region Rural Development Fund 2007- 2013 dealing with the creation of a donkey milk productive chain. The project has as its main partner the Bandite di Scarlino, an agro-forestry complex of considerable size. It covers approximately 9000 hectares, which fall in Scarlino, Castiglione della Pescaia, Follonica and Gavorrano municipalities, under Tuscany regional control. The so-called FILAMI project (Filiera Latte Asino Amiatino, acronym of the goal of the project in Italian) had among its goals helping preserve an indigenous breed of donkeys called Amiatina. Salimei (2011) assessed that the presence of the foal during milking does not affect milk ejection in jennies (the female donkey) adapted to the milking procedure, but when foals are not present the milking routine is more manageable for the animals and for optimal milk harvest; in accordance, in the present farming system the jenny has been kept separately from the foal during the milking session. To this purpose, the stable, the milking parlour and the paddocks must be well organised with a proper milking routine. Milking facilities must be designed for the milk treatment and storage at low temperature or for freezing. Currently, the milk undergoes a pasteurisation cycle for human consumption, or directed to the cosmetic industry. Moreover, the milking facilities should fulfil the creation of a milk collection centre in order to play an important role between the dairy donkey farms and the dairy industry. In this paper, the technical and technological aspects of the donkey stable, paddocks, milking parlour, mobile milking unit, and processing plants have been described and the main issues addressed.

ACS Style

Carlo Bibbiani; Patrizio Biagini; Federica Salari; Mina Martini. Dairy donkey: an alternative building layout. Journal of Agricultural Engineering 2017, 48, 1 -8.

AMA Style

Carlo Bibbiani, Patrizio Biagini, Federica Salari, Mina Martini. Dairy donkey: an alternative building layout. Journal of Agricultural Engineering. 2017; 48 ():1-8.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Carlo Bibbiani; Patrizio Biagini; Federica Salari; Mina Martini. 2017. "Dairy donkey: an alternative building layout." Journal of Agricultural Engineering 48, no. : 1-8.