Donkey and human milk: Insights into their compositional similarities

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.