2024 International Symposium Supporting the Development of the Camel Milk Sector

Abstract

The International Symposium “Supporting the Development of the Camel Milk Sector”, organized by the Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority (ADAFSA) in collaboration with the Global Food Regulatory Science Society (GFoRSS), the disciplinary group of the International Union of Food Science and Technology (IUFoST), convened experts, regulators, producers, and researchers to review advances in camel-milk science, production, and trade. Discussions highlighted camel milk’s distinct composition, including the absence of β-lactoglobulin, predominance of β-casein, and higher lactoferrin and vitamin C levels, which underpin its nutritional and hypoallergenic value. At the same time, evidence of economically motivated adulteration (blending with bovine milk, dilution, or substitution of milk fat) was presented, confirming authenticity as a key emerging challenge. Participants noted that the lack of harmonized international reference parameters hinders oversight and fair trade. The symposium’s conclusions helped establish the scientific and policy foundation for possible future standardization under the Codex Alimentarius, particularly regarding composition, authenticity, and quality assurance of camel-milk products.