MILK AS A FOOD 49 



COMPOSITION OF COLOSTRUM 



Colostrum 

 Percent 



Protein 5.71 



Fat 2.04 



Sugar 8.75 



Salts 0.25 



Water 88.25 



100.00 



Function of colostrum. The exact role of colostrum is not 

 as yet fully understood. It has been inferred from the na- 

 ture of its composition, especially its proteins, that it fur- 

 nishes to the newborn animal, during its adjustment to its 

 novel surroundings, nourishment of a character similar 

 to that it received from the placenta as a foetus. It is also 

 believed to have a purgative action and thus serves to 

 clear the digestive tract of meconium. That it serves a 

 purpose is proved by its being the first secretion, not only 

 of the human breast, but of that of all mammalians. 



Practically all dairy rules, as well as many ordinances, 

 forbid the use of milk fifteen days before and seven days 

 after parturition. 



Milk of different animals 



While we are accustomed only to cow's milk, the milk of 

 other animals is preferred in other parts of the world. Thus 

 in parts of Europe ass's milk is much used. In Italy and 

 other countries goat's milk is preferred. The milk of 

 mares, buffaloes, camels, and other animals all have their 

 advocates. 



Milk varies in composition and characteristics accord- 

 ing to the species of animal it is to feed. Thus the milk of 

 the seal and whale is high in fats, to furnish blubber to the 

 pup as an insulation against the cold water. The milk of 

 the cow is high in calcium salts, to furnish material for the 

 rapid growth of the bones. 



