By Umar Nsubuga
Milk is a highly nutritious food, packed with essential nutrients like calcium, protein, and vitamins, contributing significantly to growth and health.
While cow’s milk is the most widely consumed, it can cause allergic reactions and lactose intolerance for some people. Goat’s milk, an often-overlooked alternative, offers numerous benefits for both farmers and consumers.
The untapped potential of goat’s milk
Dr. Peter Mubiru, a veterinary doctor, notes that goat’s milk remains underutilised in Uganda due to cultural norms and accessibility.
Traditionally, Ugandans rarely milk goats as they do cows, and the design of traditional goats makes milking less practical.
However, dairy goat breeds, introduced through agricultural projects, are changing this narrative. These goats are easier to milk and produce higher yields, making goat’s milk a viable alternative to cow’s milk.
Despite its availability, some farmers struggle with market access for goat’s milk. Nevertheless, where it is embraced, goat’s milk serves as a valuable nutritional supplement, rich in calcium, phosphorus, vitamin B12, potassium, and other vital nutrients.
Nutritional advantages of goat’s milk
According to Mubiru, goat’s milk contains about 13% more calcium per serving than cow’s milk, making it an excellent choice for maintaining strong bones and teeth.
Sharon Naluwende, a nutritionist from Mulago Hospital, highlights its gentler impact on the gastrointestinal tract, promoting better digestion and nutrient absorption.
Goat’s milk is easier to digest, with the body processing it in about 20 minutes compared to two to three hours for cow’s milk, she says.
“Goat’s milk improves the metabolism of iron and copper, essential for preventing anemia. It contains antioxidants that combat aging, boost immunity, and offer cancer-fighting properties,” she says.
For those with allergies to cow’s milk, goat’s milk can significantly reduce symptoms of asthma, eczema, and rheumatoid arthritis due to its lower levels of allergens. She explains that It also helps alleviate migraines and other conditions linked to vitamin B12 deficiency.
Goat’s milk and health benefits
Goat’s milk is low in cholesterol and calories, making it suitable for people at risk of diabetes, hypertension, or on restricted diets.
Naluwende says the unsaturated fat content makes it easily digestible, making it ideal for the elderly and those with sensitive stomachs. Its enriched nutrients also promote healthy skin, which is why goat’s milk is often used in luxury soaps and skincare products.
Naluwende notes that goat cheese is a better alternative for those who struggle with cow’s cheese, offering reduced effects of lactose intolerance, such as bloating and nausea. Goat’s milk is also available in tablet form as a supplement for athletes and bodybuilders needing high protein and energy intake.
Opportunities for farmers
For farmers, goat’s milk presents numerous opportunities in the dairy sector. Its unique flavor and nutritional profile make it a versatile product for creating dairy items such as ice cream, butter, and cheese.
Mubiru says by exploring these value-added products, farmers can access niche markets that cater to health-conscious consumers and those with dietary restrictions.
“With the growing demand for organic and alternative dairy products, farmers can establish a competitive edge by producing goat’s milk sustainably. For instance, goat’s milk is naturally homogenized, which preserves its vitamins and minerals, offering consumers a purer product compared to processed cow’s milk,” he explains.
Challenges and future prospects
Mubiru explains that while goat’s milk offers immense benefits, lack of awareness and limited market infrastructure remain significant challenges. Educating communities about the nutritional advantages of goat’s milk and investing in dairy processing facilities can help farmers tap into its potential.
As more people recognize the health and dietary benefits of goat’s milk, the demand for related products, such as goat milk-based skincare items and dairy supplements, will likely increase. This presents an excellent opportunity for farmers to diversify their income streams while contributing to better nutrition and health outcomes.
