Formation of Milk

Quran 16:62
And indeed, for you in grazing livestock is a lesson. We give you drink from what is in their bellies – between excretion and blood – pure milk, palatable to drinkers.

This verse from the Quran is both scientific and medical sciences, particularly within the fields of physiology and veterinary science is correct in its description of how milk is produced in cattle. Milk in cattle and other mammals is indeed derived from nutrients that are taken up from the digestive system and delivered to the mammary gland via the bloodstream. The mammary gland then synthesizes and secretes milk that is rich in nutrients and suitable for consumption by offspring or humans. This process of milk production in cattle and other mammals is a remarkable example of biological adaptation and efficiency, and it has provided a vital source of nutrition for human societies throughout history, The Quranic description was accurate in terms of the overall process of milk creation, even though the understanding of blood circulation and digestion was not as advanced at the time. The Quran, centuries before modern scientific knowledge.

Reference: How do cows make milk

Milk is produced by mammary glands (such as in cows, goats, etc, humans, and other mammals), and blood plays a key role in this process. The nutrients and components needed to create milk are delivered to the mammary glands via the bloodstream. Here’s a simplified explanation of the process:

1. Nutrient Absorption: When a cow (or any mammal) eats food, the nutrients from that food are absorbed into the bloodstream through the digestive system. These nutrients include proteins, fats, sugars (like lactose), vitamins, and minerals.
2. Transport to the Mammary Glands: Once in the bloodstream, these nutrients travel to the mammary glands (which are specialized organs responsible for milk production). The mammary glands are richly supplied with blood vessels that bring nutrients directly to them.
3. Milk Synthesis: The mammary glands use these nutrients, especially blood sugar (glucose), amino acids, and fatty acids, to produce milk. The process involves the synthesis of milk proteins (like casein) and lactose (milk sugar), which are carried through the bloodstream into the mammary tissue.
4. Milk Formation: The cells of the mammary glands absorb the nutrients from the blood and convert them into milk. The milk is then stored in the alveoli (small sacs in the mammary glands), ready to be released when the cow or mammal is milked (or when the calf suckles).
5. Milk Release: The final step is the release of the milk from the glands. This process is regulated by hormones, such as prolactin, which signals milk production, and oxytocin, which triggers the release of milk from the glands.

So, in summary, blood is the medium that delivers the nutrients needed for milk production. The components of the blood, such as glucose, fats, and proteins, are used by the mammary glands to create the milk, and that’s how blood is directly involved in the production of milk.

Additional Information

The Qur’an is not primarily a scientific textbook, but it provides signs and guidance that point to the wonders of the universe and creation. Its core purpose is to offer a comprehensive framework for how to live a righteous and purposeful life, guiding humanity in understanding why we are here and how to fulfill our role in this world. While the Qur’an speaks about the natural world and the universe, it does not delve deeply into scientific explanations. Instead, it encourages humans to observe, reflect, and explore the world around them. As the Qur’an mentions, humanity is urged to “Say, ‘Travel through the land and observe how He originated creation. Then Allah will produce the final creation. Indeed, Allah is over all things competent. (Surah Ankabut, 29:20)” and contemplate the creation of the heavens and the earth, the cycles of nature, and the intricate balance of life. These reflections are meant to inspire curiosity and deepen our understanding of the world, leaving space for human discovery and scientific exploration. The Qur’an acknowledges the human capacity for knowledge and exploration, guiding us to seek wisdom through our own efforts and observation, with faith and reverence for the Creator.