A Study of the Microbiological Quality of Goat Milk in Quebec

Abstract

The microbiological quality of goat milk collected at Quebec farms was observed over a one-year period. Microbial counts increased during the summer period. Only one farm had a total aerobic count of >105 CFU/ml in >50% of samples taken from storage tanks. Coliform counts were <103/ml even when the total aerobic count was 106/ml. No relationship between somatic cell counts and bacterial counts was found. Exponential bacterial growth began after a lag of at least 3 d at 0–4°C. Good hygiene, rapid cooling and refrigeration, as well as frequent collection by refrigerated vehicles, ensured the production of good quality milk.