Evaluation of milk quality parameters in first parity Holstein cows

Abstract

Today, breeding objectives in cattle farms have shifted from focusing solely on milk production to also improving milk quality. In this context, this study aims to evaluate milk quality parameters in first parity Holstein cattle raised in farms enrolled to Amasya Province Breeding Cattle Breeders Association (CBA). Milk SCC, fat, protein, and lactose values of 108 cows within days 30 and 150 of their lactation were analyzed using an automated analyzer. Obtained values were evaluated using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) in three regions (Amasya-Center, Merzifon, and Suluova) and four calving seasons (Winter: December-February; Spring: March-May; Summer: June-August; and Fall: September-November). Milk fat and SCC values of cows that calved in the winter calving season, and the average SCC of samples from the Merzifon region, were found to be higher compared to other groups (P˂0.001). The calculated negative correlations between SCC and lactose (r=-0.323)  and fat (r=-0.359) revealed that these components, in addition to SCC, can also be used in determining raw milk quality. While fat (3.72±0.061%) and protein (3.48±0.015%) percentages of the milk samples were higher than the threshold declared by FAO, the lactose content (4.86±0.013%) was more consistent with the pronounced value. The calculated overall average SCC (419x103 cells/ml) was found to be quite close to the values reported by the Turkish Food Codex (TFC) and EU directives. It was suggested that adjustments should be made in milking hygiene, udder cleaning and milk storage conditions to further reduce this level.