Étude comparative de la production et de la qualité du lait des vaches de race locale (Bos indicus) pendant la saison sèche dans les districts de Mahajanga I et Mahajanga II, région de Boeny, Madagascar

Publication Date : 20/02/2026

Author(s) :

Rakotonanahary Hery Zo, Andriamahery Euzedya Voahangimanitra Harfarasoa, Razafindrajaona Jean Marie, Koto-Te-Nyiwa Ngbolua, Pius Tshimankinda Mpiana, Rahelivololoniaina Baholy.

Volume/Issue :

Volume 5

Issue 1

(02 - 2026)

Abstract :

The milk of local bovine breed (Bos indicus) has remarkable nutritional value, characterized by its richness in essential bioactive components and its unique functional properties for human health. However, scientific data on the milk production and quality of this breed remains incomplete, despite its essential socio-economic contribution to rural development in Madagascar. This study aims to characterize milk production and quality according to geographical location such as Districts, Municipalities, and Quarter levels. The methodology combines a systematic literature review with a field survey of 33 farmers and an analysis of the production of 123 cows using a LACTOSCAN LW. The results reveal variability depending on location. Average production is 1.143 ± 0.387L for Mahajanga I compared to 1.347 ± 0.513L for Mahajanga II. At the Quarter level, production varied from 1.039 ± 0.292L (Tsararano) to 1.444 ± 0.481L (Ambondrona). In Mahajanga II, the range is more pronounced, ranging from 0.750 ± 0.00L (Ambalakida) to 1.417 ± 0.629L (Belobaka). Physicochemical analysis shows compositional variability correlated with geography. Mahajanga II has higher values for several parameters, with protein content of 2.965 ± 0.129% compared to 2.638 ± 0.484% for Mahajanga I, and lactose content of 4.497 ± 0.184% compared to 3.989 ± 0.761%. The Quarter scale reveals local specificities, such as high fat content in Mahavoky (6.485 ± 1.365%). These results highlight the importance of geography in characterizing traditional dairy production. The establishment of specific quality indicators and the extension of this research to other Regions of Madagascar are essential for promoting the dairy potential of the Bos indicus breed and contributing to the sustainable development of the national dairy sector.