Strategies and Technologies for Camel Milk Preservation and Utilization of Non-Marketed Milk in Arid and Semi-Arid Areas

ABSTRACT This study determined the seasonal fluctuations in camel milk yield, consumption, spoilage and spillages, and explored its forms of consumption and the acceptability of camel milk powder in Isiolo County, Kenya. In addition, the utilization of non-marketed milk, preservation technologies, and strategies for milk loss reduction employed along the camel milk supply chain were examined. Quantitative data was collected from 216 respondents (producers, traders and transporters) using a structured questionnaire while qualitative data was collected through participant observations, key informant interviews and focus group discussions involving the camel milk supply chain participants. For quantitative data, descriptive and inferential analyses were conducted whereas for qualitative data thematic analyses were utilized. Camel milk yield, consumption, spoilages and spillages increased by 45.5%, 40%, 81.0% and 79.1% respectively in the wet season. Camel milk was often consumed in smoked and boiled forms or as tea but never in pasteurized or powder form. Transportability, affordability and shelf life were mentioned as important attributes for camel milk powder acceptability. For non-marketed milk, 28.8% and 9.0% was discarded in the wet and dry seasons respectively while 11.2% and 22.4% was processed. The main strategies employed for milk loss reduction were: maintenance of hygienic practices (88% producers, 61% traders), smoking of the milk handling equipment (68% producers, 10% traders), and simple cooling (13% producers). High cost and limited technical feasibility restricted the utilization of preservation technologies (chilling and refrigeration). These findings show the need for appropriate milk preservation technologies for longer shelf life of milk products in arid and semi-arid areas.