Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the diverse range of animal milk products available in the market, highlighting the nutritional similarities and differences among them, as well as consumer preferences based on taste and health benefits [14][19]. Nutritional Comparison - All types of animal milk provide essential nutrients such as proteins, fats, carbohydrates, and minerals, with basic nutritional components being relatively similar across different species [14][15]. - Specific nutritional advantages include higher essential amino acids in goat milk (49%), vitamin C in camel milk, and higher potassium and magnesium in sheep milk [15][19]. - The price of alternative milks like goat, camel, and sheep milk is higher than cow milk due to lower production volumes and higher costs associated with their unique farming conditions [14][15]. Taste and Flavor Characteristics - The flavor of milk is primarily influenced by its fat content, with higher fat levels leading to richer taste profiles [16][17]. - Different types of milk have distinct flavor characteristics: cow milk is mild and creamy, buffalo milk is rich and sweet, goat milk has a unique tangy flavor, and camel milk is slightly salty [17][18]. Health Benefits and Recommendations - Regular consumption of dairy products is linked to lower mortality rates and reduced cardiovascular disease risk, emphasizing the importance of incorporating milk into daily diets [19]. - For individuals with allergies, alternatives like goat, camel, or donkey milk may be suitable substitutes for cow milk [19][20]. - Recommendations for specific demographics include whole milk for children, calcium-rich options for older adults, and fermented dairy for those with lactose intolerance [20]. Consumer Considerations - Consumers should pay attention to the processing methods and ingredient lists of milk products, as "natural active nutrition" is considered the core value of milk [20]. - There is a trend towards choosing low-fat options for weight management, but studies suggest that full-fat dairy does not increase obesity risk in normal-weight individuals [20].

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the emerging "donkey shortage" crisis in China, highlighting the paradox of increasing consumer demand for donkey products while the supply is dwindling due to declining breeding interest among farmers [1][4][7]. Group 1: Current Market Situation - The term "donkey shortage" has gained popularity on social media, with discussions indicating that while cattle and horses are abundant, donkeys are in short supply [1][2]. - China's donkey population has drastically decreased from 11.2 million in the early 1990s to approximately 1.46 million in 2023, primarily due to changes in agricultural practices and consumer preferences [2][6]. - The demand for donkey-derived products, such as donkey-hide gelatin (Ejiao), has surged, necessitating the slaughter of over one million donkeys annually to meet consumer needs [4][6]. Group 2: Economic Factors - The high costs associated with donkey farming, including long breeding cycles (one offspring per year and 2-3 years to reach market weight), deter farmers from raising donkeys compared to more profitable livestock like pigs and chickens [2][3][6]. - The limited economic return from donkey products compared to other livestock further contributes to the decline in domestic donkey farming [2][3]. Group 3: Import Trends - As domestic supply fails to meet rising demand, imports of donkeys are becoming increasingly important, with Pakistan emerging as a key supplier due to its large donkey population [6][7]. - The global donkey market is shifting, with countries like Ethiopia, Sudan, and Pakistan leading in donkey farming, while new regulations in Africa may impact supply chains [6][7]. Group 4: Market Dynamics - The donkey market has experienced a U-shaped demand curve, initially declining due to mechanization and then rebounding as health trends favor donkey products [7][9]. - Companies are expected to adapt by establishing their own breeding bases and creating a dual supply model to stabilize the supply chain, addressing the current "donkey shortage" [9].