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Sheep's milk powder: benefits and applications in the food industry

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Sheep’s milk powder is a dairy product obtained by dehydrating fresh sheep’s milk. This process preserves its nutritional properties and facilitates its storage and transport. Increasingly used in the food industry, sheep’s milk powder stands out for its nutritional profile and its multiple applications.

Nutritional composition of sheep’s milk powder

Sheep’s milk is renowned for its high content of essential nutrients. It is particularly rich in high quality protein, which is essential for growth and tissue repair. In addition, it provides a significant amount of calcium, vital for bone health, and B vitamins, which play a crucial role in energy metabolism. It also contains vitamins A, D and E, known for their antioxidant properties and benefits for the skin and immune system.

Benefits of sheep’s milk powder

  • High digestibility

Despite its nutritional richness, sheep’s milk is easier to digest than cow’s milk, due to its protein structure and fatty acid profile. This makes it a suitable choice for people with digestive sensitivities.

  • Cardiovascular benefits

The presence of unsaturated fatty acids, such as conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), contributes to a reduction in LDL cholesterol and an increase in HDL cholesterol, promoting cardiovascular health.

  • Strengthening the immune system

Its vitamin A and E content, together with minerals such as zinc and selenium, strengthen the immune system and protect against pathogens.

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  • Anti-inflammatory properties

Vitamins B and K in sheep’s milk have anti-inflammatory effects and improve the formation of red blood cells.

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Applications of sheep’s milk powder in the food industry

Sheep’s milk powder is used in various sectors of the food industry due to its functional and nutritional characteristics:

  • Cheese making: Its high solids content makes it ideal for producing cheeses with an intense flavour and creamy texture.
  • Bakery and confectionery products: It provides moisture and improves the texture of breads, cakes and other baked goods.
  • Infant formulas: Used in the manufacture of infant milks due to its complete nutritional profile and high digestibility.
  • Nutritional supplements: Incorporated in shakes and energy bars, it provides a concentrated source of protein and minerals.

Considerations when consuming sheep’s milk powder

Although sheep’s milk offers numerous benefits, it is important to be aware of certain aspects:

  • Caloric content: Due to its higher fat content, it has a higher caloric value than other milks.
  • Allergies: People allergic to milk proteins should avoid consuming it.
  • Availability: May be less accessible and more expensive than cow’s or goat’s milk.

For more information on dairy products and their derivatives, visit Beurrespa, specialists in dairy ingredients for industrial customers.

Frequently asked questions about sheep’s milk powder

Although some people with lactose intolerance tolerate sheep’s milk better, it still contains lactose and a health professional should be consulted before consumption.

Sheep’s milk contains more protein, healthy fats, calcium and certain vitamins compared to cow’s milk, offering a more concentrated nutritional profile.

Yes, it is versatile and can be incorporated into bakery recipes, pastries and dishes that require milk, providing a richer flavour and improved texture.

Due to its high nutritional content, it may be beneficial for children, but it is essential to consult a paediatrician before introducing it into their diet.

It should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct light. Once the package has been opened, it is recommended to consume it within the period indicated by the manufacturer to guarantee its freshness and quality.