Calibration of the near infra-red spectroscope for the casein content of Malagueña goats milk

Abstract

In southern Spain the manufacture of goats milk cheese represents a large proportion of total the dairy production. Throughout the whole of Andalucia and the Malaga province the Malagueña breed of goat is of particular importance, due to its ability to produce high milk yields with a high protein content.The proportion of casein in milk is one of the most important factors determining the quantity and quality of cheese which can be made from that milk. It is therefore essential to be able to rapidly measure the milk casein levels prior to commencing the expensive process of cheese making.