Assessment of Physicochemical Properties and Mineral Composition of Fresh Raw Cow Milk in Hawassa City, Sidama Region, Ethiopia

Background and Objective: Milk is a highly nutritious food; however, its quality must meet established standards to ensure consumer safety and nutritional adequacy. This study evaluated the physicochemical properties and metal content of raw cow’s milk sold in informal markets in Hawassa City, Sidama Region, Ethiopia, to determine its compliance with quality standards. Materials and Methods: Raw cow’s milk samples were collected from informal markets and analyzed at Hawassa University. Fat, solids-non-fat (SNF), milk density (CLR) and added water were determined using an EKOMILK Ultrasonic Milk Analyzer, while total moisture and ash contents were analyzed by the Gravimetric Method. Total protein, total solids and lactose were calculated from SNF values. Metal concentrations (Ca, Mg, Cu, Mn, Ni, Co, Cr, Pb) were determined by flame atomic absorption spectrometry (FAAS). Data were analyzed using One-way ANOVA to assess variations among samples at a significance level of p<0.05. Results: The measured quality parameters ranged as follows: pH (6.59-6.73), added water (5.54-10.33%), density (1.0227-1.0287 g/mL), titratable acidity (0.153-0.213%), total solids (10.57-13.80%), total ash (0.603-0.636%), SNF (7.27-7.67%), total fat (3.27-6.23%), total protein (2.67-2.81%) and lactose (3.99-4.22%). Metal concentrations were Ca (1124.77-1505.11 mg/L), Mg (102.33-109.00 mg/L), Cu (0.0536-0.0817 mg/L) and Mn (0.052-0.0716 mg/L), while Ni, Co, Cr and Pb were below detection limits. Recovery rates for spiked samples ranged from 99.8 to 104.2%. The ANOVA revealed significant differences (p<0.05) among most parameters except total ash, SNF, total protein and lactose. Conclusion: Most milk samples met Ethiopian and EU standards for pH, density, acidity, ash and lactose but were below recommended limits for total fat, protein and SNF. Milk sold in informal markets of Hawassa is thus considered low in key nutritional components, highlighting the need for improved quality monitoring and regulation.