The science and the tradition
Donkey Milkwhat the research says
For centuries donkey milk has been treasured, from ancient Egypt to Mediterranean villages, for its gentle nature and its place in beauty rituals. Today researchers are studying why. This page is a plain-language summary of what the published literature reports, and where the evidence is still emerging.
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A different kind of milk
Fresh donkey milk has a composition that sits much closer to human milk than cow's milk does.
Fresh milk values. Source: Khan et al., Frontiers in Nutrition, 2024.
What researchers are exploring
Each area below is labelled with the type of evidence behind it, so you can judge it for yourself.
A gentle protein profile
Donkey milk is low in casein and has a protein profile closer to human milk than cow's milk. This is why it has been studied in children with cow's milk protein allergy. Reviews describe it as a promising option, but any change to a child's diet must be made under paediatric supervision.
Source: Int. J. Child Health and Nutrition →Naturally protective proteins
Donkey milk contains lysozyme and lactoferrin, proteins that also occur in human milk. In laboratory studies they have shown activity against some bacteria. These are test-tube results and are not proof of the same effect in people.
Source: Frontiers in Nutrition →Immune and gut research
Early studies on human cells and animal models have looked at how donkey milk interacts with immune signalling and gut health. The findings are interesting but preliminary, and human trials are still needed.
Source: WebMD (reviewed by a physician) →Skin and beauty rituals
Tradition holds that Cleopatra bathed in donkey milk, and it has featured in skincare for centuries. Modern cosmetic research is examining effects on skin cells, such as fibroblast survival and wound-healing markers. The evidence is early.
Source: Frontiers in Nutrition →Photos
Life on the steppe where our herds live.
Watch & learn
Short videos on how to prepare and enjoy our products.
What we can say, and what we can't
Donkey milk is a promising food with an interesting composition, and it deserves the attention it is getting. But the authors of the latest review are clear that rigorous clinical trials are still needed to confirm many of the health claims made about it. We would rather show you the research honestly than overpromise.
References & further reading
Published research and medically reviewed articles about donkey milk.
AGATA LIFE
Our donkey milk powders
Three donkey milk powders from the steppes of Kazakhstan.
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