Effect of Recombinant Bovine Somatotropin (rbST) on Somatic Cell Count and Mineral Contents in Milk of Kundhi Buffalo

The objective of present study to evaluate the effect of rbST on somatic cell count (SCC) and mineral contents in milk of kundhi buffalo. A total of 12 multiparous kundhi buffaloes were managed at livestock experimental farm, Sindh Agriculture University, Tandojam Pakistan. The animals were divided into four groups assigned with A, B, C and D letters (3animals/group). The experimental ration was designed according to the 2 x 2 factorial designs. The A and B groups were given low protein-energy diet, while C and D groups were given high protein-energy diet. Then rbST was administered at the dose rate of 3.0 mg/kg body weight subcutaneously to group B and D animals. SCC were increased (P<0.001) in milk of LPE+rbST treated group vs. LPE or HPE diet groups, while it was decreased (P<0.001) in HPE+rbST treated group vs. LPE+rbST treated group. The calcium level in milk of LPE+rbST treated and HPE groups altered (P<0.001) as compared to LPE group, while non-significant effect was observed in HPE+rbST treated group. A very slight increase in ash content was observed in rbST treated groups vs. untreated groups. The chloride contents were increased (P<0.001) in milk of HPE+rbST treated group, while nonInt. J. Food Nutr. Saf. 2017, 8(1): 1-12 Copyright © 2017 by Modern Scientific Press Company, Florida, USA 2 significantly increased in milk of LPE, HPE and LPE+rbST treated groups. The increase (P<0.001) sodium level was seen in milk of HPE vs. LPE groups, while non-significant effect was observed in sodium indexes of milk from rbST treated groups vs. LPE group. The concentration of ash and sodium contents was unaffected in milk through rbST treatment. The SCC, calcium and chloride contents were elevated in milk of buffaloes given rbST treatment, but within normal ranges. Thus, it is expected to be no adverse effects on the quality of milk and milk products.