A milk close to human milk
Review2023 reviewChemical composition
Donkey milk is remarkably similar to human milk. It is low in fat, cholesterol, total protein and casein, rich in lactose and whey proteins, and contains protective proteins (α-lactalbumin, lysozyme, lactoferrin, lactoperoxidase, immunoglobulins)2.
55 to 65% whey proteins
Review2025 narrative review
Whey proteins make up 55 to 65% of proteins. Vitamin C is about 4.75 times higher than in cow milk. The review notes limits: low production, and no standardized production methods or quality control1.
Vitamins that vary by milk family
Review2021 reviewHuman milk and donkey milk
On average, donkey milk contains fewer fat-soluble vitamins than ruminant milks, more vitamin C than cow milk, and more B vitamins than human milk. Levels vary with the diet and status of the mother5.