Question

Which of the following whey protein majorly found in buffalo milk ?

• A. \(\alpha\)-Lactalbumin
• B. \(\beta\)-Lactoglobulin
• C. Lactoferrin
• D. Bovine Serum Albumin

Hint:

In both cow and buffalo milks, \(\beta\)-lactoglobulin is always the dominant whey protein, whereas \(\alpha\)-lactalbumin is the dominant whey protein in human milk.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Whey proteins represent the soluble protein fraction of milk that remains in the serum after caseins are precipitated at \(\text{pH } 4.6\).

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
The distribution of whey proteins in buffalo milk is highly similar to that of bovine (cow) milk:
- \(\beta\)-Lactoglobulin: This is the most abundant whey protein in both cow and buffalo milk, accounting for approximately \(50\%\) to \(60\%\) of the total whey protein fraction. It exists primarily as a dimer in its native state.
- \(\alpha\)-Lactalbumin: The second most abundant whey protein (about \(20\%\) of total whey protein).
- Bovine Serum Albumin (BSA) and Lactoferrin: Present in much smaller, minor concentrations under normal physiological conditions.

Step 3: Final Answer
The whey protein found in the largest quantity in buffalo milk is \(\beta\)-lactoglobulin.