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Food safety remains a critical concern globally, particularly in the dairy industry of developing countries, where quality standards are often insufficient. This is attributed to low milk production, poor milk handling practices and domination of the sub-sector by informal and unregulated milk marketing channels. An improvement in the quality of the milk produced is necessary to alleviate concerns about food safety and health. This study employed a multi-stage sampling technique to select a sample of 282 dairy farmers in Meru County, Kenya. Relevant data was collected on identified variables using a structured questionnaire, and a Poisson Regression Model was used to determine the role of producer organizations in promoting farm-level implementation of milk hygiene strategies. The results indicate that producer organization membership has a positive and significant influence on the extent of farm-level implementation of milk hygiene strategies. The findings of this study provide relevant information for policy formulation aimed at improving the performance of producer organizations and the growth of the dairy industry. Therefore, dairy farmers experiencing technical difficulties should be identified and incentivized to actively participate in producer organizations, so as to increase their access to relevant extension services such as training in milk hygiene strategies, which would enhance their implementation of milk hygiene strategies at the farm-level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to determine the factors influencing Cryptosporidium sp. contamination in dairy cow milk in Jember. This study used an observational analytic design with a cross-sectional approach. The number of samples in this study was 30 cow farmers, using a purposive sampling technique. Data sources were obtained from questionnaire interviews, observation sheets, and laboratory examination results of milk samples. Data were then analyzed using univariate, bivariate, and multivariate analysis. Bivariate analysis used the Kruskal-Wallis comparison test, and multivariate analysis used the logistic regression test. The results showed Cryptosporidium sp. contamination in the milk of dairy cows by 6.7%. Most of the cow farmers in Jember had sufficient knowledge (40%), milking hygiene was categorized as sufficient (70%), and equipment sanitation was sufficient (66.7%). The statistical analysis showed no significant relationship between farmers’ knowledge and equipment sanitation and Cryptosporidium sp. contamination (p > 0.05). There was a significant relationship between milk hygiene and Cryptosporidium sp. contamination in dairy cow milk in Jember (p < 0.05). In conclusion, milking hygiene was a risk factor affecting Cryptosporidium sp. contamination in dairy cow milk in Jember. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Milk is a nutritious food for humans, but it is also an ideal growth medium for pathogenic bacteria such as Salmonella, Listeria monocytogenes or Campylobacter spp, which can cause food poisoning. Objective: For this reason, we evaluated the microbiological, physicochemical and hygienic quality of raw milk samples in 9 milk collection centres and cooperatives in the Beni-Mellal Khenifr region before and after the implementation of the quality management system, hazard analysis and critical control points (HACCP). Materials and Method: The microbiological and physico-chemical quality of 184 raw milk samples in 9 milk collection centres and cooperatives in the Beni-Mellal-Khenifra region was evaluated before and after the implementation of the quality management, hazard analysis and critical control points (HACCP) system. Results: The physico-chemical results obtained after the implementation of HACCP revealed that 78% of the samples analysed were below the maximum limits authorised at international level. A pH between 6.6 ±0.11 and 6.8±0.02, an acidity of 15°D, the milk is stable according to the Ramsdell test which is negative at 0.9. The temperature remains within the acceptance range with an average of 6.62 ±0.45°C to 7.7 ±0.36°C and the fat content is between 33 and 45g/ml. We also noted an improvement in the microbiological quality of milk in 81% of collection centres and cooperatives. The level of contamination by total coliforms is from 2.5x104 to 11.5x104 CFU/ml lower than the Moroccan standard (NM 08.0.100) of 1.5x104 CFU/ml to 20.3x104 CFU/ml, the total aerobic mesophilic flora and the psychrotrophs have an average of 2.5x105 germs/ml to 82x105 germs/ml lower than before improvement (12.5x105 germs/ml to 192x105 germs/ml). Conclusion: We can conclude that the work done leads to an improvement and satisfaction of the quality of raw milk compared to the standard after the implementation of HACCP.

This study aims to determine which bacteria are present in goat"s udder by using gram dye, nuclear nucleic acid technology, direct 16S rRNA gene sequencing, and dielectric constants. The 16S rRNA gene is frequently sequenced in modern approaches to identifying microorganisms and molecules. Bacteria like Cohnella suwonensis, Cohnella yongneupensis, and Cohnella faecalis were isolated and Staphylococcus species like succinus, lentus, xylosus, equorum, stepanovicii, fleurettii, sciuri, kocurii, and faecalis were recorded. The constants such as dielectric constant (ε′), spectra (ε″) and dielectric loss factor (ε′+ε″) spectra, and Total Bacterial Count (TBC) from raw goat milk samples were determined employing network analyzer and plate count methods, respectively. A poor relationship was found between TBC in logarithm and permittivities at single and multiple frequencies. Linear models like multiple linear regression, ridge regression, and absolute shrinking were used to determine TBC based on effective dielectric constant and spectra and their combination; and an excellent TBC performance was determined. In conclusion, various microbes found and isolated were, Staphylococcus succinus, S. lentus, S. xylosus, S. equorum, S. stepanovicii, S. fleurettii, S. sciuri, S. kocurii, Cohnella suwonensis, C. yongneupensis, and C. faecalis. This study emphasizes the importance of improved hygienic procedures in ensuring food safety by emphasizing the importance of avoiding contamination and using the appropriate types of processing equipment.

Subclinical mastitis in cattle is a pathological condition that causes a financial burden on the dairy industry. In addition, it puts the public sector at risk when pathogens of animal origin are present in unpasteurized milk and dairy products that may enter the human food chain and cause serious illnesses. Our study aimed to determine the percentage of pathogenic Escherichia coli causing subclinical mastitis in dairy cows in Mosul city by confirming the existence of Stx1 and Stx2 genes. Eighty milk samples were obtained from cows suffering from subclinical mastitis using sterile procedures from November 2018 to October 2019. Escherichia coli was isolated, characterized, and confirmed using culture and PCR. According to our research, the pathogenic Escherichia coli in milk samples was 36.3% (29/80). Moreover, molecular screening for a specific Escherichia coli gene revealed that all isolates 100% carried the uidA gene. PCR revealed that 27/29 (93.1%) isolates had both Stx1 + Stx2 genes, and all the isolates 100% possessed the Stx2 gene. No significant relationship was found between the percentage of pathogenic E. coli and the seasons. Even though there were more isolates in the winter than in the summer, this increase was not statistically significant. This study's findings may help pay attention to one of the leading causes of subclinical mastitis, which benefits the private sector in controlling the disease.

This study aims to determine which bacteria are present in goat's udder by using gram dye, nuclear nucleic acid technology, direct 16S rRNA gene sequencing, and dielectric constants. The 16S rRNA gene is frequently sequenced in modern approaches to identifying microorganisms and molecules. Bacteria like Cohnella suwonensis, Cohnella yongneupensis, and Cohnella faecalis were isolated and Staphylococcus species like succinus, lentus, xylosus, equorum, stepanovicii, fleurettii, sciuri, kocurii, and faecalis were recorded. The constants such as dielectric constant (e'), spectra (e") and dielectric loss factor (e'+e") spectra, and Total Bacterial Count (TBC) from raw goat milk samples were determined employing network analyzer and plate count methods, respectively. A poor relationship was found between TBC in logarithm and permittivities at single and multiple frequencies. Linear models like multiple linear regression, ridge regression, and absolute shrinking were used to determine TBC based on effective dielectric constant and spectra and their combination; and an excellent TBC performance was determined. In conclusion, various microbes found and isolated were, Staphylococcus succinus, S. lentus, S. xylosus, S. equorum, S. stepanovicii, S. fleurettii, S. sciuri, S. kocurii, Cohnella suwonensis, C. yongneupensis, and C. faecalis. This study emphasizes the importance of improved hygienic procedures in ensuring food safety by emphasizing the importance of avoiding contamination and using the appropriate types of processing equipment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Little has been published on the factors influencing the safety and quality of milk derived from water buffalo in Bangladesh. This study aims to describe the milk hygiene parameters and milk chain characteristics of unpasteurized raw milk sold to consumers in order to improve milk hygiene. A quantitative study design evaluated somatic cell counts, total bacterial counts, and specific gram-negative (Enterobacteria) and gram-positive (staphylococci) pathogens in 377 aseptically collected milk samples. Samples were collected at multiple nodes along the buffalo milk value chain: 122 bulk tank milk samples were collected at the farm level, 109 milk samples at the middlemen level, and 111 milk samples at the milk collection centers. In addition, 35 samples were taken from various milk products at the retail level. It was found that progressively increasing somatic cell counts and bacterial counts, including potential pathogens, occurred along the milk chain. A seasonal increase in spring was found, varying based on the farming system (semi-intensive versus intensive). Other factors included water purity and cleanliness of containers, mixing buffalo and cow’s milk, and the location of the water buffalo milk producer (coastal or river basin). This study demonstrated how improving udder health and milk hygiene along the water buffalo milk value chain would increase the safety and quality of water buffalo milk in the study area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The adoption of modern agricultural technologies in Ethiopia’s dairy production system remains underutilized and under-researched yet it is a promising sector to aid in reducing poverty, improving the food security situation and the welfare of rural households, and in ensuring environmental sustainability. This paper uses the Negative Binomial regression model to examine determinants of multiple agricultural technology adoption in the Addis Ababa and Oromia regions of Ethiopia. Data was collected from 159 smallholder dairy farms in Ethiopia’s Addis Ababa and Oromia regions exploring 19 technologies used by the farmers during the study period. The findings show that farm location and herd size impact adoption decisions. Increasing herd size is associated with increased uptake of multiple technologies. Further, as farmer education level increases the more likely farmers are to adopt multiple technologies. The increase in the number of female workers is positively associated with the adoption of multiple dairy technologies. In terms of farmers’/workers’ years of experience, those with no years of work experience are less likely to have adopted multiple technologies than those with more than 5 years of experience. However, this could be due to a number of factors where experience stands as a proxy value. Trust in information from government agencies was associated with a higher propensity to adopt multiple dairy technology as was farmer perception of fellow farmers as peers compared to those who perceive them as competitors. This is an important finding as it may help policymakers or institutions explore knowledge exchange and diffusion of innovation strategies tailored to specific farming and community situations. Studies have shown that farmers within a social group learn from each other more fully about the benefits and usage of new technology. These findings are of value in future technology adoption studies, particularly which factors influence the intensity of adoption of multiple technologies by smallscale producers.

In Uganda, informal raw milk sales dominate for domestic dairy consumption. This study was implemented to identify the structure of the dairy value chain starting from farms that participated in the Japan International Cooperation Agency Safe Milk Promotion in Mbarara project conducted between 2016 and 2019, to assess the hygiene conditions along the chain, and thereby identify the bottleneck of dairy hygiene intervention. A longitudinal study was conducted in 30 dairy farms in Mbarara District to compare the practice, prevalence of sub-clinical mastitis, and level of milk hygiene in 2016–2017 and 2019, before and after the milking hygiene intervention in 2018. California Mastitis Test was used for diagnosis with sub-clinical mastitis. Bulk milk samples were collected and a checklist was used to examine hygiene practices by observation. A cross-sectional study was conducted in 15 milk collecting centers using a structured questionnaire to quantify the dairy value chain, and to sample milk from cooler tanks in 2020. Microbiological examinations of bulk milk from farms and collection centers were conducted using six-point blood agar scoring and 3M Petri film, respectively. Participatory online appraisals with farmers and dairy cooperatives union were conducted to better understand the overall dairy value chains. The cooperatives sold milk to both formal and informal chains, but the sale of raw milk to Kampala was conducted by independent private traders. Within-herd prevalence of sub-clinical mastitis significantly decreased from 72.3% before the intervention to 25.8% after (p < 0.001). However, the farm bulk milk score did not change (3.3 vs. 3.2, p = 0.418). A significant increase in the total bacterial count was observed in the milk from collection centers (mean: 6.50 log10 CFU/ml) when compared to farm bulk milk (mean: 3.79 log10 CFU/ml; p < 0.001). Only 13.3% of the samples from the centers met the microbiological criteria for processing for human consumption. Our findings suggest that intervention targeted only at mastitis does not lead to better public health due to the low level of hygiene in transportation and milk handling in milk collection centers. Systematic interventions are needed to improve post-harvest dairy hygiene in Uganda.

Safety of milk can decline because of high concentrations of steroid hormoneslike 17β-estradiol, which is associated with the development of some oncological diseases and reproductive disorders. We studied the effects of thermal processing of raw milk and technologies of production of butter and yogurt on the concentration of 17β-estradiol. For this purpose, we determined the amount of 17β-estradiol in raw milk, after pasteurization under different regimes, boiling and during the production of butter and yogurt. Content of 17β-estradiol was determined using the method of immunoenzymatic analysis. We determined that low-temperature processing of milk atthe temperature of 77.0 ± 1.0 °С for 1 min caused no changes in the structure of the estrogenic hormone 17β-estradiol, resulting in practically no changes in its amount in pasteurized milk. We determined that 17β-estradiol in milk is a temperature-stable hormone with no tendencies towards significant decrease when subject to high-temperature processing (85.0 ± 1.0 °С for 1 min) and during boiling, because the amount of the hormone decreased on average by 5%. Therefore, we may state that after pasteurization or sterilization, the concentration of 17β-estradiol in drinkable milk would not be significantly different from its initial amount in raw milk. We determined significant increase in 17β-estradiol in butter (3896.1 ± 67.5 pg/g), as compared with the concentration in raw milk (189.4 ± 12.5 pg/mL), and its insignificant content in buttermilk was insignificant (29.3 ± 1.8pg/mL). The concentration of 17β-estradiol in milk decreased by 25% during 9-month storage at the temperature of –18 °С and by 20% at the temperature of –9 °С. This process can be applied to butter made from milk of cows at late stages of lactation, which contains high level of estrogen. We determined that the steroid hormone 17β-estradiol did not break down under the influence of dairy acid that accumulates as a result of lactic acid fermentation, both with the participation of mixed microflora of raw milk and pure lactic-acid bacteria of fermentation starter for yogurt.The prospects of the studies are the development of a safe maximum allowable level of 17β-estradiol in raw milk and methodological evaluation at a milk-processing factory. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Escherichia coli (E. coli) is a common cause of poor milk microbial quality, often resulting from unhygienic milk handling. Here, a cross-sectional study was performed to determine the prevalence and antibiotic susceptibility profile of E. coli O157 in raw cow milk sold in Kwara State. Raw cow milk (n = 1225) samples from 11 selected markets within the agro-ecological zones of Kwara State (known for vending milk) were collected across rainy (n = 548) and dry (n = 677) seasons. Isolation and identification of E. coli were done using standard procedures. The Polymerase Chain Reaction was utilized to detect E. coli O157 targeting 16S RNA and its virulence (eaeAO157) and toxigenic (Shiga-toxin 1 (stx1)) genes. The antimicrobial susceptibility profile of E. coli O157 isolates was determined by multi-disc diffusion. The total prevalence of E. coli was 48.9% (n = 599), of which 2.3% (n = 28) were E. coli O157. The prevalence of E. coli was significantly higher during the dry (58.8%) than during the rainy (36.7%) season. Twenty-six E. coli O157 isolates possessed the eaeAO157 gene, while all the 28 isolates carried the stx1. E. coli O157 were susceptible to nitrofurantoin (50.0%) and ciprofloxacin (46.5%), but resistant to cefotaxime (96.4%), ampicillin (89.3%), gentamicin (89.3%) and chloramphenicol (71.4%). This study established the presence of E. coli O157 with virulence, toxigenic genes, and antimicrobial resistance in raw cow milk in Kwara State. Improved hygienic practices during milk handling are recommended.

BackgroundMilk vendors play an important role in India's dairy value chain; however, their food safety practices are poorly understood. From a milk safety perspective, vendor behavior is significant because it has the potential to affect both consumer and producer behavior. This study describes the types of milk vendors in two Indian states, in an attempt to investigate vendors' hygienic knowledge and practices toward safety and antimicrobial resistance (AMR).MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted in the states of Assam and Haryana, India. In selected villages, all the milk vendors identified at the time of visit were interviewed. A questionnaire was used to assess the knowledge and practices on antibiotics, milk safety and hygiene. The milk samples were tested for presence of antibiotic resistant bacteria using antibiotic susceptibility testing.ResultsIn total, 244 milk vendors were interviewed during the survey. Out of these, 146 (59.8%) of the vendors traded raw milk, while 40.2% traded pasteurized milk. Vendors were categorized depending on whom they supplied milk to. Five categories were identified: (a) those who sold at grocery shops; (b) those who sold on roadside (roadside vendors); (c) those who sold from door to door; (d) those who sold to sweet makers/tea stalls, and (e) those who sold from own home/other entity. The level of training among vendors on milk hygiene was non-existent and the knowledge related to antibiotics was low. Most of them [210/244 (86.07%)] agreed that boiled milk is always safer than raw milk but almost half [119 (48.77%)] of them admitted that sometimes they drink milk without boiling it. Most vendors believed that they could identify whether milk is safe or not for consumption just by its appearance and smell. Out of 124 milk samples collected from surveyed milk vendors and tested for the presence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, 80 (64.52%) were tested positive.ConclusionThis study highlights the low levels of knowledge regarding food safety among milk vendors. It shows the predominance of informal milk vendors in the surveyed states and prevalence of AMR bacteria in milk traded by them. Training may be a beneficial strategy for addressing the issue.

The aim of this paper was to highlight the importance of the milking system on the milk yield and quality. Researches were carried out at the Research and Development Station for Bovine Raising Arad, on 72 Romanian Spotted cows of Fleckvieh type. The two milking systems were 1) milking at bucket in the barn (the old system) and 2) milking on a 2x14 herringbone parlour (the new system). Just by changing the milking system the milk production increased by 330.94 kg, the total bacteria count decreased by more than 9 times, from 460495.1 ufc/ml to 49277.5 ufc/ml, and the somatic cell count decreased as well from 346516.4 to 227275. Changing the milking from bucket in the barn to the herringbone parlour increased the hygienic qualities of the milk to the standards required by the EU.

The number of somatic cells in milk is a useful indicator for the presence of an inflammatory process in mammary glands. Besides, it acts as a key factor in the evaluation of udder health, milk hygiene and milk quality. Recent advances in technology have led to the development of numerous easy to use, automatic on farm methods with acceptable repeatability and accuracy for measuring somatic cell count (SCC) in large dairies as well as in small holder systems. However, studies regarding their acceptability, accuracy and reproducibility are scarce. Hence, we assessed the direct microscopic approach using Broadhurst Paley stain and an automated commercial somatic cell counter (DeLaval cell counter DCC, Sweden) in estimating the somatic cell count of bovine milk. The study revealed that out of 381 quarters examined using Broadhurst Paley stain, 254 (66.66 per cent) were found to have a SCC above 2 lakh cells per millilitre whereas only 245 (64.3 per cent) quarters had a SCC above two lakhs when examined using Delaval cell counter. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Homemade cheese is part of the nutritional culture of the Ecuadoran population; however, few studies have been done in relation to the microbiological quality of cheese made rustically by farmers in the north of province Manabi. Aim. To evaluate the quality of milk and homemade cheese produced rustically by farmers in the north of province Manabi. Materials and Methods: A microbiological analysis was performed to 156 samples of milk and cheese, using the petrifilm method, for quantification of total aerobial, mesophilic, and coliform microorganisms, in addition to Enterobacteria, fungi, yeasts, and Staphylococcus aureus. They were compared to the Ecuadoran standards. The values were log10 UFC/mL (milk) and UFC/g (cheese). Results: Statistically significant values (p=0.001) were obtained between rustic raw milk and homemade cheese, which made them unsuitable for consumption in relation to the following indicators: mesophiles (6.24 and 8.41); total coliforms (5.40 and 7.26); Enterobacteria (4.40; 6.44); fungi and yeasts (3.52 and 5.16), and S. aureus (4.33 and 5.99). The correlation coefficient found between milk and cheese for all the microorganisms was above 0.65 in all the cantons. Conclusions: The milk and fresh homemade cheese produced rustically in the four cantons studied failed to meet the sanitary and hygienic standards, going beyond the microbiological limits set by the national standards, which were especially significant in canton EL Carmen, and moderately among these dairies for each indicator microorganism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective. by regions in the hygienic and compositional quality of milk collected in a formal way in Colombia between 2008-2019 associated with the issuance and entry into force of regulatory regulations. Materials and methods. 144 monthly reports on the hygienic and compositional quality of the milk collected formally were used for each of the milk-producing regions of Colombia consolidated by the USP-MADR. With these reports, three study periods were formed, separated by the entry into force of resolutions 017 of 2012 and 468 of 2015. The data obtained was analyzed under the quantile regression scheme. Results. Differences were found between the analyzed periods for the parameters of hygienic quality and compositional quality in each region. Hygienic quality represented the highest variation, being more evident in region 2. There were differences in the compositional quality of milk collected formally in Colombia between the periods associated with the entry into force of the regulations, mainly in region 1. Conclusions. It was evidenced that the entry into force of the regulations exerted influence on the parameters of hygienic and compositional quality of milk collected formally in Colombia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Safety and wholesomeness of milk intended for human consumption are influenced by various interlinked factors. However, information on what these factors are, especially in the pastoral traditional communities of Ethiopia, is largely lacking. The objective of this study is to assess the hygienic milk production, processing and consumption practices, and behaviors of Borana pastoralists. Methods The study used qualitative participatory research methods. Individual semi-structured interviews, focus group discussions, informal discussions, and observations were carried out on (1) milk handling practices, (2) perceptions of quality and safety of milk, including perceived criteria for good milk, (3) awareness of milk-borne diseases, and (4) perception towards milk boiling practices. The interviews and discussions were audio recorded, transcribed, and analyzed by identifying themes. Results Some risky behaviors related to milk handling and consumption were identified. These include unhygienic conditions in handling milk and milk products, consumption behaviors such as consuming raw milk purchased from markets, and children directly consuming milk from the udder of animals (e.g., goats). There was a very strong reluctance to boil milk before consumption mainly because of the misconception that nutrients in the milk are destroyed when milk is boiled and “boiled milk is dead”. On the other hand, potential risk mitigation practices were identified such as smoking of milk containers (which may help reduce microbial growth), processing milk through fermentation, consuming milk in boiled tea, and a recent trend towards boiling milk for babies. However, the latter was not motivated by concern over microbial hazards but the belief that raw milk could form curds in children’s stomach which might then suffocate them. Conclusion The findings highlight the need to promote hygienic handling practices of milk and closely engage with local communities to improve their understanding of milk safety to facilitate change in practices. Educating pastoralists on good milk production practices should be given priority. One of the ways to do this could be by strengthening the integration of milk hygiene in research and development programs as an entry point for behavioral change towards the safe handling and consumption of milk and milk products.

The article contributes to the booming field of the history of milk in Switzerland by looking at the scientific and agricultural practices in milk production in the second half of the 20th century. Due to the general transformation of agriculture towards more intensive farming systems, practices and methods of controlling milk hygiene changed considerably. Infectious diseases of the udder of cows presented one of the most important production diseases in Switzerland. The article presents a case study of a collaborative system of mastitis control called «Eutergesundheitsdienst» (EGD) that was developed by veterinarians in collaboration with milk research institutions and administrative bodies. It shows how the focus of scientists shifted from the product, milk, to the producers, the cows and their udders, in correspondence with the emergence of a specific understanding of «udder health», as a precondition of milk performance. The EGD aimed to reduce udder infections by paying attention to environmental factors in the stable. It used bacterial counts and cell counts in milk as laboratory-confirmed indicators for correct production methods. This scientific view clashed with the farmers' understanding of milk hygiene and animal health, which was based on practical experience. For them, a healthy cow was always more than her udder. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to propose a novel surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS)-based aptasensor by using 4-mercaptobenzoic acid (4-MBA) modified gold@silver core-shell nanoparticles (Au@Ag NPs) for detecting kanamycin for the first time with outstanding sensitivity and selectivity in the real milk samples. To achieve a high SERS activity substrate, the Au@Ag NPs with uniform shapes in a diameter of 32.2 ± 3.4 nm were synthesized successfully by seed-mediated growth and then modified with the Raman reporter 4-MBA. Under the optimal conditions, this aptamer sensing system exhibited a linear range between 6.67 × 10− 10 g/mL and 2 × 10− 7 g/mL with the limit of detection (142 pg/mL) of kanamycin. Moreover, the KANA-specific aptamer endowed a good specificity to this biosensor for the negative interference from other analogues (streptomycin sulfate, gentamicin sulfate, and penicillin). Finally, the aptasensor was applied in the artificially contaminated milk (1–100 ng/mL) samples and compared with the HPLC-MS technique, with the result indicating great practicality of the aptasensor. This paper has provided a potential aptasensor for simple and rapid trace-sensing of the harmful antibiotic residue in milk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Milk and milk products are essential in the diets of the Borana pastoral community in Ethiopia. Traditional handling and processing of dairy products using basic equipment and infrastructure coupled with a preference for raw milk consumption pose potential health risks to consumers. We tested the effect of an intervention designed to improve the hygienic handling and safe consumption of milk on the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of women who produce and sell dairy products. The intervention consisted of 16 h of training on good milk production practices and prevention of milk-borne diseases. A total of 120 women were trained and their KAP assessed at baseline (pretraining), immediately after training, and 6 mo after training. Overall, training increased the knowledge score of the participants from 75.6 to 91.4% in the immediate post-training assessment, and to 90.0% at 6 mo post-training. Compared with pretraining (58.8%), we found a statistically significant difference in the overall attitude score at the immediate post-training evaluation (64.7%) but not 6 mo after (61.4%). We observed a similar increase in the understanding of correct practices from 49.5% at pretraining to 64.7% 6 mo following the training. For some desirable attitudes and practices, the proportion of women reporting adoption at pretraining was low and the change derived from training still left one-third of respondents displaying a negative attitude and a quarter of them reporting wrong practices. We recommend that future training interventions be complemented with locally adaptable technologies, provision of incentives, and creation of an enabling environment including improved access to clean water and sanitation facilities to affect not only knowledge, but also attitudes and ultimately practices in the long term. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To characterize some factors which influence the hygienic-sanitary quality of milk in two dairy farms with different production conditions. Materials and Methods: A survey was done with the workers of one farm, belonging to an animal husbandry enterprise of Matanzas province, to determine their knowledge about the factors that affect milk quality and the fulfillment of the procedures for obtaining and preserving milk. In addition, the quality kinetics of the milk stored in two dairy farms of the enterprise, was evaluated. Results: The fat percentage varied between 3,70-3,96 and 3,87-4,30 %; while acidity was 0,141-0,151 and 0,140-0,153 % for dairy farm 1 and 2, respectively. Density in both dairy farms remained in the established indicators. The reduction time of methylene blue was the indicator that showed higher variations. In dairy farm 1 it reached a time of 5 h and 30 min. during all the samplings. Nevertheless, in 2 it was 3,5 h in the initial sampling, and then it decreased until reaching 40 min. at 24 h. Conclusions: The hygienic-sanitary quality of the produced milk depends on the existing conditions in the dairy farms. Acidity, density, fat and total solids remained within the established criteria, in spite of differences in the dairy farms. The reduction time of methylene blue was the most affected indicator in dairy entity 2, according to the hygienic conditions under which milking was carried out. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research conducted in recent years on the hygienic quality of milk, using the main indicators determined the existence of quality grids that were used and in the present paper helping to classify milk samples to different quality classes. Through this paper we tried to use the main rapid enzymatic tests to assess the freshness and hygiene of the raw material milk, depending on its retention time and any contamination with alterative microflora at the shelter / milking level, 25 samples of fresh milk, stored for 5 days under refrigeration conditions and experimentally contaminated milk were obtained by haemorrhage. The determinations consisted in highlighting the acidity (°T), carrying out enzymatic tests catalase and reductase, identifying the number of somatic cells and the total number of germs. Regarding the catalase test, it revealed a reduced microbial load in the fresh milk, indicating that it can be processed industrially or consumed after thermal processing. The milk refrigerated for 5 days and the experimentally contaminated milk presented medium and high microbial contamination, according to the catalase test, being risky, respectively unfit for consumption. Regarding the test of reductase, it included the samples of fresh milk in class I of quality (lack of risks, immediate use after thermal processing); those of refrigerated milk in the second class of quality (exclusive use after industrial processing); those contaminated experimentally in quality class III (confiscation and prohibited use for food purposes). As a final conclusion, he stated that enzymatic tests to identify catalase and reductase can be successfully used to determine the degree of contamination of milk and to determine its hygienic quality, the results of which are correlated with the total number of germs and with the titrable acidity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Ewe bulk tank milk quality is significantly influenced by management and milking machine features of dairy sheep flocks. • Dry therapy, postdipping, milking machine revision, pulsator airline, pump capacities and pulsation influenced somatic cell count variation. • Dry therapy, milking machine revision, bedding maintenance, tank milk and warm water temperatures influenced total bacterial count variation. • This knowledge could further enhance flock management efficiency, milk quality and productivity in dairy sheep sector. To study the effect of main flock target practices and milking machine features on the variation of bulk tank milk (BTM) somatic cell count (SCC) and total bacterial count (TBC) in dairy sheep flocks, a total of 3458 records of BTM SCC and TBC, corresponding to 340 audited flocks from the Consorcio de Promoción del Ovino of Castilla y León region (Spain), were collected throughout 12 months before testing the technical features of their milking machines. Average values were established for flock size (485.6 ewes), replacement rate (21.1%), parlor capacity (35.7 places), number of milking units (13.8), milking vacuum (36.2 kPa), pump air capacity at 50 and 36 kPa (106.4 and 158.3 L/min per milking unit), manual reserve (122.3 L/min per milking unit), air, milk and milking unit system consumptions (8.0 to 12.5 L/min per milking unit), internal diameters of the main air and milk pipes (5.9 mm and 4.2 mm per milking unit), pulsation rate and ratio (161.1 c/min and 57.4%), age and time since the last revision of the milking installation (16.3 years and 48.1 months), BTM temperature (3.4 °C) and washing water temperature at water-heater outlet (62.1 °C). Antibiotic dry therapy, time since last milking machine revision, and warm water temperature were critical factors influencing BTM SCC and TBC variation. Optimised BTM quality was also obtained for flocks with a greater size and foreign breeds, confined and post-dipped, with daily bedding maintenance, a low-level milk pipeline system, the presence of pulsation airline, greater manual reserve, smaller milk system consumption, and greater main air and pulsation pipe diameters. Greater milk pipe diameters and pulsation rates ≥180 c/min were associated with smaller SCC, but greater TBC, whereas pulsation ratios ≥60% increased SCC, but decreased TBC. Overall, results will allow for the optimisation of educational and risk management programs in the dairy sheep sector to improve flock mammary health and BTM hygiene. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Food safety is closely related to economic development and daily life of people. The valid food safety and risk warning contribute to the social health and sustainable development. However, the inspection data of food safety is characterized by high complexity, high dimension and non-linearity. Therefore, an improved interpretative structural modeling (ISM) method based on the grey relational analysis (GRA) (GRA-ISM) is proposed to hierarchical analyze influencing factors of food safety. The correlation coefficient between the influencing factors is calculated by the GRA. Then the ISM is used for stratifying and establishing the multi-hierarchical structure of influencing factors of food safety. Finally, the infant formula data and the sterilized milk data of food safety in China are hierarchical analyzed by the GRA-ISM. The multi-hierarchical structure model of different factors affecting food safety can be obtained. The Student's t-test (t -test) is used to verify the validity of the threshold selection and the result of the GRA-ISM. Meanwhile, through the early warning analysis of the major factors, the proposed method can guide relevant departments to strengthen supervision and urge enterprises to work safely. Highlights • An improved GRA-ISM method is proposed. • The multi-hierarchical structure model of different factors affecting food safety is established. • The validity and the practicability of the proposed method are verified by food safety inspection data. • The proposed method can guide relevant departments to strengthen supervision and urge enterprises to work safely. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Raw milk is a common component of agropastoralist diet in The Gambia. Characterization of raw milk consumption and handling practices in the country is limited, as is knowledge of bacterial contamination of raw milk sold by herdsmen or at informal markets, which may impact food safety and consumer health. We conducted a two part study in Gambia to comprehensively address these research gaps. In Study A, mixed interviews were conducted with herdsmen (n = 12) and market vendors (n = 31) in order to characterize milk intake and handling. The results showed that raw milk is a regular component of the diet of herdsmen, vendors, and their young children, with 25% of herdsmen and 41.9% of vendors introducing raw milk into their infant's diet before 3 months of age. Only 7.0% of interviewees were observed cleaning milk vessels before use, and 93% stored milk only in ambient temperatures. Study B documented visible impurities (e.g., hair, dirt, insects) and assessed the presence of potentially pathogenic Enterobacteriaceae in raw cow's milk (n = 53) from farms and informal markets upon collection (t = 0) and after 24 h (t = 24) in ambient temperature, which reflects local storage conditions. Visible impurities were present in 58.5% of milk samples. Enterobacteriaceae concentrations were >104 CFU/mL in 92.5% and 96% of t = 0 and t = 24 milk samples respectively, and were therefore considered unsafe for human consumption. This research concludes that raw milk, especially as a weaning food in this region, requires greater attention as the prevalence of contamination threatens food safety for infants and other consumers. Highlights • Enterobacteriaceae concentrations were measured in raw cow's milk from The Gambia. • Over 90% of samples contained Enterobacteriaceae concentrations >104 CFU/mL. • Raw milk was introduced to infants before 6 months of age for 81.4% of interviewees. • Raw milk consumption in Gambia may cause negative health consequences for consumers. • Hygienic milk handling practices are inadequate and require greater attention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Antecedentes: la leche es un alimento estratégico en la alimentación humana y en la economía de la industria quesera en México. Es importante evaluar indicadores de higiene de la leche destinada a la producción de quesos debido a que estos pueden influir en la producción, rendimiento y sabor del queso, además de aportar información sobre el proceso de producción y manejo de la leche. Objetivo: determinar la calidad higiénica de la leche procesada en las agroindustrias queseras mediante el conteo de células somáticas con el fin de identificar su cumplimiento con los estándares que establece la norma mexicana NMX - F - COFOCALEC - 2012. Métodos: se estudiaron 51 muestras de la leche cruda recibida en tres agroindustrias rurales productoras de quesos tradicionales de la localidad de Las Lajas, Aculco, Estado de México, en la época de otoño (octubre a diciembre de 2022). El conteo de células somáticas se realizó empleando el equipo De Laval Cell Counter. Resultados: se encontró que la leche procesada por las agroindustrias estudiadas presenta una concentración de células somáticas promedio de 534471 ± 518400 cs/ml, lo cual sitúa a la leche en clase 3 de acuerdo con la norma mexicana NMX - F - 700 - COFACALEC - 2012. De la leche procesada, el 49,02 % de la leche entregada se encuentra en clase 1; el 3,92 % en clase 2; el 21,57 % en clase 3; el 9,80 % en clase 4 y 15,68 % fuera de los límites permitidos por la norma. Conclusiones: la leche recibida en las agroindustrias de la localidad de Las Lajas en promedio cumple con los estándares higiénicos permitidos por la normativa mexicana, no obstante, hay productores de leche que presentan un conteo de células somáticas en la leche que sobrepasa los límites permitidos, indicando que no es apta para el consumo; esto puede ser perjudicial para diversos actores de la producción y economía de la cadena agroalimentaria de quesos de la localidad, haciendo importante mejorar la higiene en el ordeño, monitorear y atender casos de mastitis subclínica. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of addition two medical plants or their mixture on hematological, biochemical parameters, hormonal levels and milk microbiology of lactating Awassi ewes. Twenty-eight ewes at mid lactation were divided into four groups and fed rations containing 1% Gall oak, 2% Astragalus, 0.5 Gall oak + 1% Astragalus, and Control. At biweekly intervals, blood samples were withdrawn. A bulk milk samples was collected for microbiological test under sterilized conditions. Results revealed that medicinal plants significantly influenced Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate being lowest in the Astragalus group. Ewes feed Mixture group had significantly higher blood glucose concentration. Cholesterol level was significantly lower in the blood of ewes fed Gall oak diet and was highest in ewes fed Astragalus diet. Animals fed diet supplemented with Gall oak had a significantly higher concentration of T3 hormone. Total viable bacterial and mold count was decreased in the milk of Astragalus and Gall oak group, respectively. It can be concluded that Astragalus eriocephalus and Quercus infectoria improved immunity, metabolism and milk hygiene of lactating Awassi ewes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Agricultural Chemistry & Biotechnology is the property of Egyptian National Agricultural Library (ENAL) and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Antibiotic residues are often present in raw milk and have a negative impact on human health. This study took place in four regions of Kosovo during four months (September, October and December 2015, and January 2016). Residues of antibiotics in milk were determined using the standard microbiological methods called Delvotest SP and SNAP test which is an enzyme-linked, receptor binding assay. Out of 1055 analysed milk samples during 2015 and 2016 in different areas of Kosovo, 106 samples (10%) were identified with antibiotic residues. The results showed large variations between weeks during the research, clearly favoring the fourth week of January 2016, with much smaller number of residues of antibiotics in fresh milk (0.4%). The highest number of residues is registered in the first week of September (2.1%). Identification of positive samples (10%) in different areas of Kosovo, is a great concern that must be taken into consideration to determine the reason for the high percentage of positive samples. Further studies are neccessary to be done. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main objective of this study is to assess nutritional and hygienic qualities of raw milk collected in situ in dairy cattle farms in the region of Guelma, Algeria. For this purpose, a total of 144 milk samples were collected and analyzed to determine their physicochemical characteristics and bacteriological quality. Results showed an acceptable nutritional quality, with a poor bacteriological quality. The average contamination was 11.69 x 105 CFU ml-1 for total flora, against 23.44 x 105 CFU ml-1 for total Coliforms and 7.34 x 104 CFU ml-1 for fecal Coliforms. In addition, 6% of total samples were positive for Clostridium. For the suspected pathogenic flora, Staphylococcus aureus has been detected in 9 samples; however, all milk samples were devoid of Salmonella. The poor quality of milk reflects the dismal conditions of production and the nocontrol of hygienic practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The question of how best to secure a healthy, disease-free milk supply was one of the most contentious public health issues in interwar Britain. Commentators identified improper and unhygienic milking practices as just one area of the dairy industry in desperate need of reform. In the 1920s a loose partnership of agricultural scientists and educators, civil servants, and dairy businesses turned to competition as a means by which to convince milkers as to the benefits of “scientific dairying”. Clean milk competitions came to simultaneously educate and discipline British dairy workers by working to redefine milking skill with the help of the laboratory sciences. However, the venture was a contentious one, wherein competition participants would often resist the meanings and methods that were coming to be employed in the quest for “clean milk”. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Food-borne diseases are contributing to health burdens globally, especially in developing countries. In India, milk production is important for nutrition security, but milk products are prone to contamination with pathogens. In Assam, a state in Northeast India, a novel hygiene intervention was conducted in 2009–2011, and the knowledge, attitudes and practices among milk producers, milk traders and sweet makers were assessed.Methods: The first survey was conducted in 2009 and included 405 producers, 175 traders and 220 sweet makers from 4 districts. The second survey was conducted in 2012 with 161 producers and 226 traders from 2 districts, both trained and untrained participants. In addition to questionnaires, observations on hygiene were done and samples were analysed for Escherichia coli.Results: In 2009 only 13.0%, 9.1%, and 33.1% of producers, traders and sweet makers respectively believed diseases could be transmitted by milk. There were significant improvements in knowledge after training among both traders and producers. The proportion of samples containing added water decreased from 2009 to 2012. Although knowledge had increased, all samples tested contained E. coli.Conclusion: This study shows a need to increase knowledge about milk-borne diseases and hygiene, and the positive effect of a training intervention.

Milk quality depends on the physicochemical characteristics, hygienic standards, and nutritional quality; however, animal husbandry practices, unhygienic harvesting and processing, may affect its quality. A cross-sectional study was conducted between August 2010 and July 2011 to assess the hygiene of cow milk production environment, raw cow milk physicochemical characteristics, and microbial quality and estimate the prevalence of antimicrobial residues using standard methods in Pemba Island. A total of 98 raw cow milk samples from selected smallholder dairy farms were analyzed, and the judgement on the quality used the East African Standards. Generally, the milk production chain was done under the unhygienic condition, and dirty plastic containers were used for collection and storage of milk under room temperature. Some milk samples had abnormal colour (2.1%), abnormal smell (7.1%), and pH below normal (35.7%), clotted on alcohol test (9.2%), and had the specific gravity below normal (13.3%). All the milk samples had mineral contents within the recommended range. Milk samples with butterfat below normal were 29.6%, while 14.3% had total solids below recommended values. The mean total viable count (TVC) of milk container surfaces was 9.7±10.5 log CFU/100 cm2, while total coliform count (TCC) was 7.8±8.5 log CFU/100 cm2. Up to 55.1% of milk had TVC beyond the recommended levels. The milk mean TVC was 11.02±11.6 log CFU/ml and TCC was 6.7±7.3 log CFU/ml. Up to 26.5% of milk samples had the TCC beyond levels. Results on physicochemical characteristics and nutritional analysis show that the raw cow milk in Pemba Island is of inferior quality. Microbiological results of this study imply heavy contaminations of milk. Antimicrobial residues were detected in 83% of the samples and most of them were from Wete District. Unhygienic milk production chain accelerates microbial contaminations, and antimicrobial residues in milk are a big problem that needs urgent attention from the responsible authority. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The molecular epidemiology of Listeria monocytogenes was investigated in a longitudinal study of three Finnish dairy farms during 2013 to 2016. A total of 186 bulk tank milk (BTM), 224 milk filter sock (MFS), and 1,702 barn environment samples were analyzed, and isolates of L. monocytogenes were genotyped using pulsed-field gel electrophoresis. L. monocytogenes occurred throughout the year in all sample types, and the prevalence in MFS increased significantly during the indoor season. L. monocytogenes was more prevalent in MFS (29%) than in BTM (13%) samples. However, the prevalence of L. monocytogenes varied more between farms in samples of MFS (13 to 48%) than in BTM (10 to 16%). For each farm, the L. monocytogenes genotypes detected were classified by persistence (defined as persistent if isolated from ≥3 samples during ≥6 months) and predominance (defined as predominant if >5% prevalence on at least one farm visit). The prevalence of sporadic genotypes was 4 to 5% on all three farms. In contrast, the prevalence of persistent predominant genotypes varied between farms by 4% to 16%. The highest prevalence of persistent predominant genotypes was observed on the farm with the poorest production hygiene. Persistent predominant genotypes were most prevalent on feeding surfaces, water troughs, and floors. Genotypes isolated from the milking system or from cow udders had a greater relative risk of occurring in BTM and MFS than genotypes that only occurred elsewhere in the farm, supporting the hypothesis that L. monocytogenes is transmitted to milk from contamination on the udder surface or in the milking equipment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Food & Dairy Sciences is the property of Egyptian National Agricultural Library (ENAL) and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Microbes that may be present in milk can include pathogens, spoilage organisms, organisms that may be conditionally beneficial (e.g., lactic acid bacteria), and those that have not been linked to either beneficial or detrimental effects on product quality or human health. Although milk can contain a full range of organisms classified as microbes (i.e., bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protozoans), with few exceptions (e.g., phages that affect fermentations, fungal spoilage organisms, and, to a lesser extent, the protozoan pathogens Cryptosporidium and Giardia) dairy microbiology to date has focused predominantly on bacteria. Between 1917 and 2017, our understanding of the microbes present in milk and the tools available for studying those microbes have changed dramatically. Improved microbiological tools have enabled enhanced detection of known microbes in milk and dairy products and have facilitated better identification of pathogens and spoilage organisms that were not known or well recognized in the early 20th century. Starting before 1917, gradual introduction and refinement of pasteurization methods throughout the United States and many other parts of the world have improved the safety and quality of milk and dairy products. In parallel to pasteurization, others strategies for reducing microbial contamination throughout the dairy chain (e.g., improved dairy herd health, raw milk tests, clean-in-place technologies) also played an important role in improving microbial milk quality and safety. Despite tremendous advances in reducing microbial food safety hazards and spoilage issues, the dairy industry still faces important challenges, including but not limited to the need for improved science-based strategies for safety of raw milk cheeses, control of postprocessing contamination, and control of sporeforming pathogens and spoilage organisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recognizing how human behaviors affect the milk process can be useful to understand variations in hygienic and sanitary parameters in bulk tank milk. Furthermore, this knowledge could be used to design management programs that guarantee milk quality, favoring the optimization of such processes. Forty-six milkers from the same number of dairy farms in Antioquia province (Colombia) were interviewed to establish the main factors associated to milk quality. Technical knowledge, motivations, and behavior of the personnel and its effect on hygienic and sanitary quality of milk were evaluated. Quality was assessed in terms of colony-forming units (CFU) and somatic cell count (SCC) in bulk tank milk. Two factors from a multivariate mixed data analysis were evaluated. One of those factors explained 9.51% of the total variability, related with in-farm availability and use of tools and the relationships between milker and manager. The other factor, associated with work environment and recognition, explained 6.97% of the total variability. The variables that best explained CFU levels were Knowledge of the udder condition at milking, and Milking type (parlor or pasture). The SCC was associated to knowledge of animal handling, schooling of milkers, milking site, and the groups derived from the cluster analysis by farm. In conclusion, milker attitudes and behaviors can affect CFU and SCC in bulk tank milk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The application of good hygiene practices for the reconstitution of infant formulae, preparation and consumption of feeding bottles, according to manufacturer’s instructions, is essential to ensure the microbiological safety and quality of feeding bottles. This study investigated the growth of Serratia marcescens, a bacterium widely present in home environments with the ability to cause pink coloration resulting from growth in intentionally contaminated reconstituted infant formulae, stored at 32 °C (as a simulation of inappropriate storage in tropical regions). In addition, poor hygiene practices such as lack of bottle wash after use, inadequate bottle washing and heat sanitisation, or use of contaminated kitchen cloths to wipe dry sterilised baby bottles were investigated as leading causes of microbial contamination and transfer during preparation of feeding bottles. Infant formulae powders represent a negligible risk of S. marcescens contamination, because finished product specifications require absence of Enterobacteriaceae (EB), and all lots are tested for absence of EB before release. The results of the simulation of inadequate hygiene practices during preparation of feeding bottles showed that bottles or reconstituted milk can be readily contaminated with S. marcescens by using a dirty cloth. The resulting contamination level in prepared milk was as high as 4 log CFU/mL. A similar contamination level was associated with inappropriate bottle washing and sanitation. Poor hygiene practices leading to such contamination levels are undesirable even if the feeding bottles are consumed immediately. S. marcescens was able to initiate grow in artificially inoculated infant formulae (3.2 log CFU/ml) within 4 h (lag-phase) and reach levels of 6 and 8 log CFU/ml after 8 h and 12 h at 32 °C respectively. A maximum growth rate of 0.42 h −1 was determined. The first sign of a distinctly pink discoloration was noticed at 32 °C within 24 h when cell concentration was above 9 log CFU/mL. To reduce microbial contamination during reconstitution of infant formulae it is strongly recommended to adhere to the 2007 FAO/WHO Guidelines on the Safe Preparation, Storage and Handling of Powdered Infant Formula and the instructions on the labels. In addition it is recommended to: - Immediately discard milk of unfinished bottles, wash feeding bottles after use and let them dry out, - Do not wipe bottles with kitchen cloths to dry after sanitisation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The European reference method (ERM) recognises the fraudulent addition of bovine (B) milk in water buffalo (WB) milk/dairy products based on concomitant isoelectric focusing (IEF) detection of B γ 2 - and γ 3 -CN fragments after corresponding plasminolysis. We here used proteomics to characterise false positive results occurring in the ERM as being due to WB β-CN(f100-209), which is also formed after plasminolysis of genuine WB milk/dairy products and comigrates in IEF with B γ 2 -CN. These ERM limitations were overcome by a dedicated proteomic procedure based on loading of B/WB milk/cheese CN extracts on a hydroxyapatite column, in situ trypsinolysis and elution of B β-CN(f1-25)4P and WB β-CN(f1-28)4P proteotypic peptides. Based on their similar ionisation properties and resolution in MALDI-TOF-MS, these phosphopeptides were identified as suitable markers for detection of B material in WB milk/dairy products to a detection limit of 0.8% v / v . This proteomic procedure is here proposed as integrative/alternative to the ERM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to investigate the influence of hazard analysis critical control point (HACCP) system implementation on the reproductive efficiency of dairy cattle, milk quality, and veterinary medicine use in dairy farms across Korea. Data were collected from 50 dairy farms before and after the implementation of the HACCP system. Importantly, somatic cell number and bacterial count in raw milk, and monthly expenses for medicine were lower after HACCP system implementation (p<0.05). However, the breeding interval, use of different classes of antibiotics, milk protein, and milk fat content were not changed by implementing the HACCP system. These results indicated that implementation of the HACCP system on dairy farms may reduce the use of veterinary medicine and improve milk sanitation levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Clostridia in the milk can lead to late blowing, a cheese defect. Clostridia are ubiquitous, deriving from both the farm environment and the feed ingested by the cows, and are transferred into the milk through faecal contamination. Our aim was to investigate the effect of different in-parlour practices on the content of anaerobic spore-forming bacteria in milk, and to monitor the variation in spore content in the feed and environment. The experiment, conducted in an experimental dairy during autumn, was repeated in exactly the same way for two consecutive years. The experimental design applied three different milking routines in three consecutive 7-d periods: forestripping alone (F); forestripping and post-dipping (F+Post); pre-dipping, wiping, forestripping and post-dipping (Pre+F+Post). Teat skin swabs and samples of feed, faeces, bedding materials and milk were collected for microbiological analyses. The dietary forage of the lactating cows included maize silage, which, in both years, was found to have the highest level of clostridial spore contamination. Pre-dipping with a detergent/emollient solution, and drying with a disposable paper towel, proved much more efficient in reducing spore contamination than forestripping alone, both on the teats (1·30 vs. 2·20 log10 MPN/swab; P < 0·001) and in the milk (1·82 vs. 2·47 log10 MPN/L, P < 0·02), while post-dipping had little influence on spore count. The standard plate count in milk was significantly lower with Pre+F+Post treatment than with F (3·80 vs. 4·51 log10 CFU/mL, P < 0·01). The teat preparation procedure did not influence the lactic acid bacterial levels in the milk, which is very positive in that decreased lactic acid bacterial content can lessen raw milk cheese quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Several studies have investigated which management practices have the greatest effect on udder health, but little information is available on how broadly the recommended milking practices are adopted across Canada. The National Dairy Study 2015 was designed to gather dairy cattle health and management data on dairy farms across Canada. The objectives of the present study were to describe the current proportions of adoption of milking practices on Canadian dairy farms, and identify factors associated with their use on farms. A bilingual questionnaire measuring use of various practices, including an udder health-specific section, was developed and sent to all Canadian dairy farms. The questions in the udder health section of the questionnaire were adapted from a bilingual questionnaire previously validated and containing questions regarding general milking hygiene and routine, and on-farm mastitis management. Chi-squared tests were used to investigate simple associations between adoption of practices and various explanatory variables including region, milking system, herd size, and bulk tank somatic cell count. In total, 1,373 dairy producers completed the survey. The regional distribution of the participants was representative of the Canadian dairy farm population, and milk quality was, on average, similar to nonparticipants. Overall, Canadian dairy producers followed the recommendations for milking procedures, but some were more extensively used than others. Forestripping, cleaning teats, wiping teats dry, using singlecow towels, and use of postmilking teat disinfectant were widely adopted. Use of gloves and glove hygiene, use of a premilking teat disinfectant, and use of automatic takeoffs were not as extensively implemented. Adoption percentages for several practices, including use of gloves, use of a premilking teat disinfectant, teat drying methods, and use of automatic takeoffs were significantly associated with milking system, herd size, and region. It would be helpful to explore the reasons why producers choose to adopt or ignore recommended milking practices as most are easy to include in the routine and are fairly inexpensive. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study presents an investigation of Amiata donkey health and quality of milk for human consumption. Thirty-one lactating dairy jennies were examined. The following samples were collected: faecal samples from the rectum of animals for parasitological examination; cervical swabs for the detection of bacteria causing reproductive disorders; and blood samples for serological diagnosis of main zoonotic (Brucella spp., Leptospira spp.) and donkey abortion agents (Brucella spp., Leptospira spp., Salmonella abortus equi, Equine viral arterithis virus, Equine herpesvirus type 1). In addition, individual milk samples were collected and analysed for mastitis- causing pathogens and milk quality. Regarding animal health, we detected a high prevalence of strongyle parasites in donkeys. It is very important to tackle parasitic diseases correctly. Selective control programmes are preferable in order to reduce anthelmintic drug use. For dairy donkeys, withdrawal periods from anthelmintic drugs need to be carefully managed, in accordance with EU and national regulations. The isolation of Staphylococcus aureus in milk highlights the importance of preventing contamination during milking, by adopting appropriate hygiene and safety practices at a farm level. Lysozyme activity was high compared to cow’s milk, contributing to the inhibitory activity against certain bacteria. Donkey milk was characterised by high lactose content, low caseins, low fat, higher levels of unsaturated fatty acids compared to ruminant milks. Unsaturated fatty acids and omega 3 fatty acids in particular have become known for their beneficial health effect, which is favourable for human diet. These characteristics make it suitable for infants and children affected by food intolerance/ allergies to bovine milk proteins and multiple food allergies as well as for adults with dyslipidemias. It is also recommended to prevent cardiovascular diseases.