Effect of different sample collection methods on the results of raw milk analysis

Abstract

The collection of samples of raw milk shall be careful to reflect their actual composition, and different methods of collection, may lead to variations in levels of milk components. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of different methods of milk sampling on the chemical composition and somatic cell count. Milk samples were taken from 492 cows in a dairy farm of Rio Verde, state of Goiás, Brazil. Two sampling methodologies were used: a pool-sample and a complete sample (40 mL) of the first a pool of milk sample and the second a complete sample (40 mL) of the first milking. Results showed that the method of collection not change the values of SCC, protein, lactose and casein. The fat, total solids and urea were influenced by sampling methods, demonstrating the importance of standardization of the milk samples collection from dairy herds, to ensure the reliability of results.