Assessment of milk handling, raw milk quality, and contamination risks in dairy cattle farms in Region 02, Philippines

Date

6-2025

Abstract

The research investigated dairy cattle farms in Region 02, Philippines, with a focus on farm profiles, raw milk quality, microbial hazards, and remedial measures in milking and handling practices. The farms vary in size, management, and livestock integration, with most located in mountainous areas. Dairy farmers were predominantly middle-aged males, primarily engaged in dairy farming and supported by cooperatives. Common dairy breeds were Holstein, Sahiwal, and Jersey crossbreds, with artificial insemination as the main breeding method. Feeding combined grazing and cut-and-carry systems, with some reliance on purchased forages. Housing lacked quarantine facilities, and common health issues included mastitis, pneumonia, and bloating. Milk production ranged widely, mostly with once-daily milking using portable machines. Physicochemical milk tests showed fat, protein, and lactose generally within acceptable ranges, though somatic cell counts (SCC) exceeded limits in some farms (451,000 and 547,875 cells/ml), indicating udder health problems. No antibiotic residues were detected, reflecting good drug use practices Microbiological analysis revealed that only one farm met microbial standards for total plate count (TPC) and Escherichia coli count in raw milk. Other farms showed significantly higher contamination, with TPC values at the farm level reaching up to 8.3 x 105 CFU/ml and coliform counts exceeding recommended limits (< 50 CFU/ml, US Standards). Salmonella was detected sporadically in milk and on contact surfaces, especially in Farms 1, 2, and 3. Despite corrective measures such as improved sanitation and hygiene, TPC in raw milk at delivery still ranged from 2.9 x 105 to 1.0 x 106 CFU/ml. Total coliform counts (TCC) and E, coli counts remained above safety thresholds in all farms. On milk contact surfaces, TPC and coliform counts decreased but still exceeded recommended standards in rinse samples, with coliform levels above < 10 CFU (Canada Standards). Salmonella were persistently detected. The findings highlight the urgent need to enhance milk handling practices and hygiene protocols across dairy farms in Cagayan Valley. Strengthening these areas is crucial for improving milk quality and ensuring the safety of consumers.

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree

Doctor of Philosophy in Animal Science

College

Graduate School (GS)

Adviser/Committee Chair

Maria Cynthia R. Oliveros, Ph.D.

Committee Member

Amado A. Angeles, Vernansa V. Bautista, Lotis E. Mopera

Language

English

Location

UPLB Main Library Special Collections Section (USCS)

En – AGROVOC descriptors

DAIRY CATTLE; COW MILK; DAIRY HYGIENE; MICROBIAL CONTAMINATION; MICROBIOLOGICAL ANALYSIS; RISK FACTORS; MILKING; HANDLING; MILK PRODUCTION; CATTLE BREEDS; LIVESTOCK HOUSING; DAIRY FARMS

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