Recent advances in the authentication of goat milk and its derived products

Abstract

Despite the recognized health benefits of goat milk, its limited production, high market price, and increasing consumer demand have raised the risk of adulteration in goat milk and its derived products. In response, various analytical strategies, including molecular, omics- ( i.e. genomics, proteomics, metabolomics) and sensor-based approaches, have been developed to ensure authenticity. This review provides an updated overview of recent advancements in the authentication of goat milk, highlighting key biomarkers identified and assessing the strengths and limitations of each analytical method. Furthermore, it discusses recent developments for the authenticity assessment of goat milk-derived products, emerging trends, practical challenges, and potential solutions. Therefore, this contribution can serve as a solid groundwork for researchers and food industries seeking to protect goat milk and its derived products against fraudulent practices. • Genomics, proteomics, metabolomics, and sensor-based methods improve sensitivity and specificity in goat milk authentication. • Species-specific biomarkers (e.g., α3′-galactosyllactose, lysine, κ-casein) enable detection of cow milk adulteration in goat dairy. • Industrial uptake is constrained by high costs, procedural complexity, and reliance on advanced instrumentation (e.g., NMR, MS). • Future progress requires portable, AI-driven tools and harmonized authentication standards for on-site fraud detection and global traceability.