Discovering Dairy: What's in Your Milk?

This course offers a foundational introduction to lactation biology, focusing on the anatomy, development, and function of the mammary gland. Students will explore the processes of milk production, secretion, and removal, and examine the nutritional composition of milk—including fats, proteins, lactose, vitamins, and minerals. The course also covers milk’s role in human health, including infant development and lactose intolerance, as well as the significance of bioactive milk components. In the final module, learners will gain insight into mammary health, identifying common conditions like mastitis and edema, and exploring prevention strategies. Designed for learners from diverse backgrounds, this course provides a comprehensive overview of milk science and its biological and nutritional importance.

This course is part of the College of ACES suite of online programs, including the graduate certificate, "Dairy Nutrition for Udder Success" that can be stacked toward an advanced degree in the College of ACES. To learn more about online programs from the College of ACES and explore ways to apply your Coursera work toward a degree program at the University of Illinois, visit ACES Online at acesonline.illinois.edu.