Myths and Facts About Donkey Milk: Lactose, Protein, Taste

Contents

1. Myth 1: “Donkey milk is lactose-free”
2. Myth 2: “Donkey milk is suitable for people with...
3. Myth 3: “Donkey milk is a substitute for breast...
4. Myth 4: “Donkey milk is a source of protein”
5. Myth 5: “Donkey milk has a strong taste”
6. Myth 6: “Donkey milk is a miracle cure”
7. Myth 7: “Donkey milk is only so expensive because...
8. How to identify reliable information about donkey milk
9. Frequently Asked Questions

There are many claims about donkey milk – some exaggerated, some simply false. Here are the most important facts first: donkey milk is a rare, mild food with little fat, little protein and a relatively high amount of lactose. It is not a miracle cure and not a substitute for breast milk. In this fact check, we go through seven common myths, with a focus on lactose, protein and taste.

Myth 1: “Donkey milk is lactose-free”

False. Donkey milk contains about 6 to 7 grams of lactose per 100 ml. This is actually more than cow milk, which contains around 4.7 grams. The high sugar content is also the reason for the slightly sweet taste.

Anyone with lactose intolerance should therefore not assume that donkey milk is a low-lactose alternative. Our article Which milk contains how much lactose? shows how much lactose different types of milk contain.

Myth 2: “Donkey milk is suitable for people with allergies”

This is not generally true. Donkey milk contains milk protein. Although its protein profile differs from that of cow milk, this does not mean that it is safe for people with a milk protein allergy. Anyone with a milk protein allergy or another intolerance should consult their doctor beforehand to find out whether donkey milk is suitable. Ingredients and allergens are always listed on the label.

Myth 3: “Donkey milk is a substitute for breast milk”

False. Donkey milk is not a substitute for breast milk or infant formula and is not suitable as food for babies. If you are considering adding donkey milk to the diet of a child, during pregnancy or breastfeeding, please speak to your pediatrician or doctor beforehand.

Myth 4: “Donkey milk is a source of protein”

Probably not. With about 1.5 to 1.9 grams of protein per 100 ml, donkey milk contains only about half as much protein as cow milk. The fat content is also low: usually under one gram per 100 ml. Accordingly, the energy content is only about 35 to 45 kcal per 100 ml.

In addition, donkey milk contains calcium (about 60 to 90 mg per 100 ml) as well as naturally occurring lysozyme and lactoferrin. These are components of milk – not evidence of special properties. Donkey milk is primarily studied scientifically because of its composition.

Myth 5: “Donkey milk has a strong taste”

False. Many expect a strong taste, like that of some goat or sheep milk products. Donkey milk is the opposite: mild, slightly sweet and thin. Many compare it to very light cow milk. Try it well chilled and plain to get a clear taste of its unique flavor.

Myth 6: “Donkey milk is a miracle cure”

False. Donkey milk has been valued for centuries. According to legend, Cleopatra even bathed in donkey milk. Such stories make donkey milk fascinating, but they are not evidence of special properties. Donkey milk is a food – nothing more, nothing less. It can be part of a varied diet, but it replaces neither a balanced diet nor medical advice.

Myth 7: “Donkey milk is only so expensive because of marketing”

False. The price has solid reasons. A donkey only produces milk while nursing her foal. The foal drinks first, and only a portion is milked: about 1 to 2 liters per day. At DON DONKEY'S®, it is milked by hand or in small quantities on European farms. The milk is laboratory tested in Germany and delivered frozen. You can find more background information in the article Why donkey milk is so rare.

How to identify reliable information about donkey milk

Many myths arise because statements are passed on without being checked. You can better assess information by asking a few simple questions:

• Are figures given? Reliable information provides nutritional values with ranges, such as “6 to 7 g of lactose per 100 ml,” instead of just “rich in” or “full of.”
• Is a distinction made between legend and fact? Stories about Cleopatra are legends, not evidence.
• Are limitations stated? Good information also states for whom a food is not suitable or when medical advice is advisable.
• Are ingredients and allergens listed on the label? The label is always the authoritative source.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does donkey milk contain less lactose than cow milk?

No. With about 6 to 7 grams per 100 ml, donkey milk contains more lactose than cow milk, which contains around 4.7 grams.

Is donkey milk suitable for babies?

Donkey milk is not a substitute for breast milk or infant formula. If you have questions about children's nutrition, please contact your pediatrician.

How do I store fresh donkey milk?

Frozen at −18 °C. To thaw it, place it in the refrigerator (2–7 °C). Please follow the instructions on the label.

What is the difference between fresh donkey milk and powder?

The powder is freeze-dried and stored dry. As a guideline, about 10 g of powder and 90 ml of water yield around 100 ml of donkey milk.

Donkey milk is a food and not a medicine. If you have health-related questions, please consult your doctor.