ABSTRACT
The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of chalcones on milk production and qualitative properties of milk in Zaraibi goats. Five chalcones have been synthesized via Clasien- Schmidt condensation under alkaline conditions. Structures of the synthesized chalcones confirmed by their melting point (mp), Infrared spectrum IR and Proton Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (1H-NMR) spectra. Total antioxidant capacity (TAC) of the synthesized compounds were measured according to Phosphomolybdenum method, and the results indicated that chalcone V [1-(benzofuran-2-yl)-3-(4-methoxyphenyl)-prop-2-en-1-one] has the highest antioxidant activity among the five synthesized chalcones.
Sixteen dairy Zaraibi goats have been divided into three groups according to their parity, milk yield, body weight and age. G1 (4 animals) served as control group and were fed the basal diet, G2 (6 animals) were fed the basal diet + 250 mg/head/day of chalcone V and G3(6 animals) were fed the basal diet + 500 mg/head/day of chalcone V for a period of 90 days. Results showed insignificant increase in milk yield of the three groups (1.07, 1.07 and 1.14 L, respectively), in milk protein (2.80, 2.87 and 2.92%, respectively) and milk somatic cells (SCC) (956.4*103, 981.1*103and 1181.7*103 cells/ml, respectively).While there were insignificant decrease in milk fat of the three groups (3.70, 3.45 and 3.31%, respectively), milk lactose (4.45, 4.45 and 4.36%, respectively) and total milk solids (11.67, 11.47 and 11.29%, respectively). Total antioxidant capacity of blood serum was insignificantly higher in G2 than G1 and G3 (2.86, 3.25, 2.83 mM/L, respectively). Findings indicate negative response of using chalcones on milk production and qualitative properties of milk as it may decomposed in the rumen or not absorbed by the intestine due to its large particles.