Troubleshooting and Controlling Bacteria On-Farm: A Hands-On Approach
- October 24, 2024
In previous articles, such as On-Farm Origin of Raw Milk Bacteria and Contamination – Lactanet, we’ve discussed why we care about milk quality, and bacteria count specifically. In short, milk quality starts at the dairy farm, and raw milk bacteria load is one of the regular quality controls, measured using BactoscanTM .Raw milk contamination by undesirable bacteria and other microorganisms can make milk unsuitable for processing and is often responsible for spoiled or deteriorated dairy products. A high bacteria count is therefore used as an indicator that production practices and/or milk handling on farm are leading to raw milk contamination.
To further illustrate how and where bacterial contamination happens on farm, we outlined the origins of bacteria in relation to the udder (Figure 1):
Figure 1. Origins of Bacteria: outside the udder (the cow's environment), inside the udder (milk produced by the cow), and/or after milk is harvested from the udder (equipment, and milk cooling & holding)
While bacterial contamination originates from one of the three sources listed above (outside, inside or after the udder), there is often a combination of different points of contamination. So, where do we begin, and how can we pinpoint our focus areas?
The table below (Table 1), presents control points, possible solutions and contacts for support to troubleshoot each of the three sources of bacterial contamination. It is also available to print with extra space for notes and contact numbers.
Table 1: Approaches to Troubleshooting Bacteria On-Farm.
Lastly, remember that the bacteria count reflects a farm’s environment, application of good management practices, herd health status and overall equipment maintenance practices. You must explore potential sources and critical entry points of bacteria specific to your farm – outside the udder, inside the udder, and after the udder. Thanks to the BactoScanTM analysis, complementary testing, and regular DHI milk recording, you can monitor your herd more effectively and react quickly should a problem arise. Do not hesitate to reach out to your contact list for support.
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