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Factors affecting Clean Milk Production

Milk is one of the main sources of proteins and calcium for a largely vegetarian population. Around 63 per cent of the available animal protein comes from milk.Milk is the most easily contaminated and perishable commodity as it is an ideal medium for bacterial growth. Hence, the employment of hygienic practices right from milking at the farm level to the factory is essential. The causes of high bacterial load in milk and the factors affecting the clean milk production are presented in Figures.
Causes of high bacterial load in milk
Causes of high bacterial load in milk

The factors affecting the production of clean and safe milk can be classified into two catagories: internal and external factors.

i)Internal factors includes:
  •  Udder infection – Mastitis
  •  Foremilk – First few streams of milk contains a large number of bacteria
ii) External factors includes:
  • Cow/animal’s body – especially dirt and dung from hind quarters and tail
Factors affecting Clean Milk Production
Factors affecting Clean Milk Production

  •  Udder and teats
  •  Milker – hygiene and habits
  •  Milking and storage utensils
  •  Method of milking
  •  Feed and Water
  •  Milking Environment
However, contamination of milk can be corrected at various levels as follows:
  •  The animal management- includes feeding, housing and health
  •  Hygiene of milking equipment and utensils
  •  Milker and milking practices
  •  During storage and transport
  •  Personal hygiene of those who are involved in production, processing and delivery activities related to milk and milk products

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