Buyer protection
Contents
It is not possible to make any credible promises about the effects of donkey milk on digestion, and we do not make any. What can be stated objectively is how donkey milk is composed and which components may play a role in its tolerability. Here you will find a straightforward overview of lactose, protein and fat – and guidance on when you should seek medical advice.
What donkey milk consists of
Like all milk, donkey milk consists mainly of water. It also contains milk sugar (lactose), protein, fat and minerals. The proportions vary depending on the animal, feeding and season. For a specific product, the information on the label is binding.
| Per 100 ml (approx.) | Donkey milk |
|---|---|
| Energy | 35–45 kcal |
| Fat | 0.3–1.8 g (usually under 1 g) |
| Protein | 1.5–1.9 g |
| Lactose | 6–7 g |
| Calcium | 60–90 mg |
Donkey milk also naturally contains the protein components lysozyme and lactoferrin. These are frequently mentioned when it comes to donkey milk. What is important for you: these are ingredients. No effect on digestion can be inferred from this.
Lactose: the most important factor for tolerability
A common misconception is that donkey milk contains little milk sugar. The opposite is true. With about 6–7 g of lactose per 100 ml, it contains rather more than cow's milk, which has around 4.7 g. Lactose is also the main reason for its mild, slightly sweet taste.
For people with lactose intolerance, this is a key piece of information. Donkey milk is not a low-lactose alternative. By the way, on nutritional tables, you will usually find lactose under "Carbohydrates, of which sugars". In milk, this sugar comes almost entirely from natural milk sugar and not from added sugar. So when you compare products, it is worth taking a look at this exact line. If you have or suspect lactose intolerance, please speak with your doctor before trying donkey milk.
Protein and fat at a glance
Donkey milk contains milk protein. Although the composition of the protein differs from that in cow's milk, it is still milk protein. For people with a milk protein allergy, this means: donkey milk is not automatically an alternative. The same applies here – consult your doctor first.
The fat content is usually under 1 g per 100 ml. This makes donkey milk feel light in the mouth. Whether you find a food pleasant, however, is very individual and depends on many factors – not just on individual nutritional values.
Why we do not make promises about digestion
Many statements about donkey milk regarding the gut, stomach and digestion can be found online. Such health-related claims for food are strictly regulated in the EU. There are no approved claims for donkey milk in this regard. Statements referring to diseases or medical conditions are generally not permitted for food.
There is a good reason for this: food does not treat diseases. Digestive problems can have many causes, ranging from harmless to requiring medical treatment. They belong in the hands of medical professionals, not in a marketing promise. That is why we provide you with facts about the composition – and no promises.
When you should seek medical advice
Please speak with your doctor before incorporating donkey milk into your diet if:
- you have or suspect lactose intolerance or a milk protein allergy,
- you have regular or persistent digestive problems,
- you have a gastrointestinal disease or are following a special diet because of one,
- you are pregnant or breastfeeding,
- it concerns the nutrition of children. Donkey milk is not a substitute for breast milk or infant formula.
A nutrition professional can also help you adapt your diet to your situation. Donkey milk is primarily studied scientifically for its composition. You can find an objective overview on our page Donkey Milk in Research.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is donkey milk easier to digest than cow's milk?
We cannot make such a statement about a food. How you tolerate milk is individual. Your doctor can help you with any questions.
Does donkey milk contain less lactose than cow's milk?
No. With about 6–7 g per 100 ml, it contains rather more lactose than cow's milk (approx. 4.7 g).
What are lysozyme and lactoferrin?
These are protein components that occur naturally in donkey milk. No effect on the body can be inferred from this.
Where can I find the exact nutritional values?
On the respective product. Ingredients, allergens and nutritional values are always subject to the label.
Donkey milk is a food and not a medicine. If you have any health questions, please contact your doctor.
