Buyer protection
Contents
“New study on donkey milk” – headlines like this often sound impressive. But what a study really shows depends heavily on how it was conducted: in a test tube, on animals, or on humans. In this post, we explain the main types of studies and give you questions to help you evaluate donkey milk research reports yourself. We deliberately do not repeat specific claims about its effects.
Why the type of study is so important
Donkey milk is primarily studied for its composition: low in fat, high in lactose, and containing a high proportion of whey proteins and proteins such as lysozyme and lactoferrin. Many studies describe this composition. Others test individual components under laboratory conditions.
However, there is a long way to go between a laboratory result and a statement about humans. Knowing the type of study helps you better assess how far-reaching a result is.
Laboratory experiments: What happens in a test tube
In laboratory experiments, also known as in vitro studies, substances or cells are examined outside a living body. Often, the milk itself is not tested, but rather an isolated component or a concentrate in a specific quantity.
Such experiments are important for developing questions. However, they do not reflect what happens when the milk is drunk: digestion, absorption, and the many processes in the body are missing. A laboratory result is therefore a starting point, not evidence for everyday use.
Animal models: One step further, but not humans
Animal models examine how a living organism reacts. This is closer to humans than a test tube. Nevertheless, animals differ significantly from humans in their metabolism, body size, and lifestyle. In addition, quantities are often used that play no role in everyday life. Results from animal studies therefore cannot simply be applied to humans.
Studies on humans: The design matters
There are also major differences in studies on humans:
- Observational studies: They show associations, but not causation. People who drink something often differ in other habits as well.
- Controlled studies: One group receives the food being studied, while a control group does not. If the groups are formed randomly, they are called randomized studies. They are more reliable.
- Review articles: They summarize many individual studies and assess their quality. Their conclusions are only as reliable as the studies they are based on.
Seven questions for your study check
- Who or what was studied? Cells, animals, or humans?
- How many people or animals were involved? Small groups provide less reliable results.
- Was there a control group? Without a comparison, it is difficult to determine what caused a result.
- What exactly was tested? Fresh milk, powder, an isolated component, or a concentrate?
- In what quantity? Is the quantity similar to what people consume in everyday life?
- Where was it published? Was the study reviewed by independent experts?
- Who funded it? Conflicts of interest should be clearly stated.
Why studies are not advertising claims
Under EU food law, health claims may only be used if they have been officially assessed and approved. Individual studies are not sufficient for this. There is no such approved claim for donkey milk as a food. That is why we do not use research as evidence of its effects, but rather describe the composition of the milk. You can read about the topics researchers are interested in regarding donkey milk in the post The Science Behind Donkey Milk. Our page on donkey milk research also provides an objective overview.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between in vitro and in vivo?
In vitro means in a test tube, or outside a living body. In vivo means in a living organism, such as an animal model or a human.
Can I apply animal studies to humans?
Not so easily. Metabolism, body size, and the quantities used often differ significantly.
How can I recognize a reliable study?
By a sufficiently large group, a control group, random group assignment, and publication with independent peer review.
What should I do if I have questions about my health because of a study?
Talk to your doctor. Individual studies are no substitute for personal advice.
Donkey milk is a food, not a medicine. If you have health-related questions, please consult your doctor.
