TESTING MILK FOR CLEANLINESS OF PRODUCTION1

Abstract

Clean milk production is an important requisite for high quality, The mixed sample sediment test of producer's milk is indicative of production practices and should be renamed “Cleanliness of Production Test.” Cleanliness of milk in the farm tank should relate to dairy farm inspection ratings. Standards of < 1.5 mg/gal are practical to meet, Milk can be kept clean if milking preparation and procedures as out-lined in regulatory codes are followed. Unclean milk can be only partially “cleaned” by filtration because of fragmentation and solubility of some filths. The test disk is likely to be fouled and may show yellow color when testing highly abnormal milk and thus testing serves a dual purpose. Before-straining testings indicate degree of sediment contamination. Thorough washing and drying of teats with single service material with no reuse of solution cannot be overemphasized. A universal milk sample taken from each milk collection simplifies monitoring for cleanliness using 4 oz sample and 0.2. inch diameter test. Milk cleanliness should be regulated since voluntary programs are subject to many variables. Producers should assume responsibility for clean milk production by conducting their own mixed sample test using sediment test disk.