Three factors that contribute to the accuracy of milk recording data

1. Milk meters verified annually

ICAR (International Committee for Animal Recording) certified lactometers are reliable equipment adapted to the conditions of use on the farm.  The annual verification of the lactometers helps to improve the accuracy of the data. This verification must be done by your Lactanet technician or, for electronic systems, by a milking equipment technician. It is required for lactation records to qualify for publications and contribute to genetic evaluations. 

2. Proper mixing of sampled milk

Sampled milk must be thoroughly mixed before sampling. Following proper mixing procedures and verifying the proper operation of automated systems promotes accurate component values. For producers who collect samples themselves, team up with your Lactanet technician to use the sampling procedure adapted to your equipment. For a complete review of good sampling and milk recording practices, please consult this document : 12 Steps for representative sample.

3. Precise and regular milking times

Accurate recording of milking start times, i.e. the sampled milking(s) and the previous milking with a certified and functional timer is essential. Correction factors associated with AM/PM service can change depending on whether the sampled milking occurs in the morning, in the evening and at every 10-minute interval between morning and evening milkings. The same milking procedures are required on test days as on previous days, such as the order in which cows are milked.