The Story of Goat Milk: A Planet-Friendly and Timeless Tradition

Milk has been a nourishing staple across cultures for thousands of years, and goat milk, in particular, has a rich history. From ancient traditions to modern sustainability initiatives, its journey is both fascinating and heartwarming.

Goat Milk Through History: A Trusted Source of Nutrition

Goats have been domesticated for over 10,000 years, providing milk, meat, and fibre to early agricultural societies. Their versatility made them invaluable in challenging environments. Goats have thrived where other livestock couldn't, with their milk becoming an integral part of diets across the globe. Cultures from the Mediterranean to the Middle East have long prized goat milk for its unique properties and reputation for easy digestibility. But the story of goat milk isn't just about history – it's about the future, too.

Goat Milk and Sustainability: A Natural Choice for the Planet

In today's world, sustainability is more important than ever. Goats are efficient grazers, eating shrubs and grasses that other livestock often can't, which helps reduce strain on arable land. Compared to cows, they require less water, feed, and land. Their smaller size also means they produce less methane, reducing their environmental impact. It’s no wonder that as we become more eco-conscious, goat milk is making a resurgence.

Goat Milk in Baby Care: A Gentle and Time-Honoured Alternative

The story of goat milk isn't just about feeding cultures across the world and its environmental impact – it's also one of innovation and compassion. At Great Ormond Street Hospital (GOSH) in London, during the turn of the 20th century, goats were thought to have played a vital role in baby care. The hospital, looking for alternatives for babies whose mothers had sadly died during childbirth or were unable to breastfeed, kept goats on site to provide fresh milk for those vulnerable little ones.

There's even a charming tale that suggests some goats formed special bonds with the babies they fed regularly – a story that highlights the ingenuity and care of the time. Whether or not these accounts are entirely true, they add a layer of warmth to the history of goat milk and its nurturing role.

Why Goat Milk? A Naturally Gentle Choice

Goat milk is often considered a natural choice for those seeking a gentle alternative to cow's milk. It has a reputation for resembling breast milk more closely¹, naturally forming softer curds² along with higher levels of natural prebiotics³. As interest in exploring alternatives to cow’s milk grows, goat milk is finding its way into the hearts and homes of more families.

A Tradition of Care: Nourishing Little Ones with Nannycare

The story of goat milk is one of adaptability, resourcefulness, and care – values that extend beyond farming into family nutrition, much like Nannycare’s dedication to changing the law and gaining recognition for goat milk formula in the UK. 

Whether you're choosing Nannycare Follow On for its levels of natural, high-quality ingredients or because you're looking for gentle alternative to cow’s milk formula, Nannycare is proud to be part of a timeless tradition that values both people and the world around us. And that's a story worth celebrating.

Important Notice

Breastfeeding is best. Follow on Milk should only be used as part of a mixed diet from 6 months. Not suitable for cow’s milk protein allergy. Talk to a healthcare professional.

References:

1. Storry et al., 1983; Ambrosoli et al., 1988; Remeuf et al., 1989; Park 2007; Mestawet et al., 2014; Ye et al., 2016, 2. Clark et al, 2000; Park et al.,2007; Ye et al., 2016; Wang et al., 2019, 3. Thum et al., 2015; Martinez-Ferez et al., 2006; Meyrand et al., 2013; Kiskini and Difilippo, 2013; van Leeuwen et al., 2020,