Estudio comparativo del modelo de ganadería bovina lechera agroecológica y convencional

Abstract

Bovine milk production in Ecuador is mainly developed under an intensive conventional model; however, agroecology emerges as a sustainable alternative aimed at conserving resources, improving animal health, and reducing environmental impacts. This study compared both production systems through compositional, hygienic-sanitary, productive, and economic analyses of milk, based on 253 samples collected from three agroecological farms and one conventional farm. The results revealed advantages in the agroecological system regarding milk quality, with higher levels of fat (4.2%), protein (3.7%), total solids (>13%), and non-fat solids (>8.9%), as well as superior hygienic quality, with 89.78% of samples classified as excellent (<158,000 CFU/ml). Likewise, the prevalence of subclinical mastitis was significantly lower (23.36%) compared to the conventional system (78.45%). In productive terms, the conventional farm obtained the highest yield (16 L/cow/day), exceeding agroecological farms (6–12 L/cow/day) due to greater supplementation, intensive management, and the use of specialized dairy breeds. However, the agroecological system showed lower dependence on external inputs, which may enhance its economic viability in small and medium-scale operations. It is concluded that agroecological production offers milk with better hygienic and compositional quality, while the conventional system maximizes productivity. Strengthening sanitary management, standardizing udder washing, and promoting differentiated marketing that values agroecological milk for its quality and sustainability is recommended.