Chemical composition and mineral content of goat milk from four indigenous Portuguese breeds in relation to one foreign breed

Raw goat milk samples from Saanen and indigenous Portuguese breeds were analysed for gross composition, minerals and trace elements. Mean results revealed that some distinction could be seen for the Serrana breed. A significant geographical difference (P < 0.05) between Serrana herds was also observed. Generally, milk from Saanen did not differ significantly (P > 0.05) from that of the indigenous Portuguese breeds. Multivariate analysis showed that goat breeds could be divided into two groups, the ones reared mainly inland and those reared towards the coast. Potentially toxic elements were not detected.