Factors affecting the milk yield, milk composition and physico-chemical parameters of ghee in lactating crossbred cows

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of season, production status, stage of lactation, and parity on milk yield, milk composition and physico-chemical parameters of ghee in forty crossbred cows (CBCs). Milk samples were collected from individual animal during morning in both summer (May-August) and winter (November-February) season. The results revealed that milk yield was significantly influenced by the production status and lactation stage. The fat percentage was significantly affected by the stage of lactation and parity. However, protein percentage was affected by the season and stage of lactation. An effect of season, stage of lactation and parity on butyro- refractometer (BR) reading of ghee was significant. The Reichert-meissl (RM) value of CBCs ghee was significantly influenced by the parity whereas Polenske value by the production status and parity. Results also indicated that the RM value of CBCs ghee was found to be below the legal standard of minimum 28 in Punjab state.