Milk quality research focusing on chlorine related residues
The use of chlorine-based detergents are very effective in maintaining hygiene of the milking machine and bulk talk. Residues, however, could potentially impact on milk powder as an ingredient for infant formula. Bernie O’Brien & David Gleeson, Teagasc, Moorepark discuss their research in this area
Chlorine-based detergents
The use of chlorine-based detergents for cleaning milk contact surfaces (milking machine and bulk talk) have been very effective in maintaining plant hygiene (total bacterial count [TBC] and Thermoduric count). However, the potential for chlorine associated residues (Trichloromethane [TCM] impacting on butter quality and Chlorate that could impact on milk powder as an ingredient for infant formula manufacture) was recognised as a significant issue for dairy product markets and a research programme was initiated. Following significant efforts by milk suppliers, advisory personnel, research and testing of milks, the target for TCM levels in butter has been achieved. Chlorate levels are also within specification. But the long-term control of these residues is strongly linked to the widespread removal of chlorine-based detergents for cleaning.
In light of the importance of maintaining premium export markets for butter and dairy ingredients, new chlorine-free detergents have been developed for use in place of chlorine-based detergents. However, there is a significant challenge associated with ensuring that good microbiological quality of milk and low bacterial numbers are maintained.
A substantial body of work is now focused on:
(a) the availability of effective new products and
(b) the correct use of these products on-farm to ensure good microbiological quality milk in the bulk tank.
Chlorine-free cleaning protocols
Different chlorine-free cleaning protocols for milking machines and bulk tanks have been developed and tested to meet the industry requirement to be chlorine-free. The correct use of these protocols on-farm to ensure low TBC and Thermoduric count is crucial. Research has shown that hot water in sufficient supply is a key component of chlorine-free cleaning. A minimum of 7 hot washes per week are required and the recommended detergent solution temperature is 75-80oC and 45-55oC at the start and end of circulation, respectively.
Hot water in sufficient supply is a key component of chlorine-free cleaning
Research trials and observations on commercial farms have shown that a build-up of milk residue can occur on some plants, particularly on claw-piece internal surfaces and this is generally related to insufficient hot washes, low detergent levels and frequency of acid washes. Steps to avoid such a build-up include re-calibrating the automatic detergent dosing systems. This is necessary to ensure the correct uptake of the different detergent products, as uptake rates may be lower for products that do not contain chlorine. All of these factors, individually, are critically important and together, should ensure full compliance and premium quality milk, in terms of microbial (hygiene) and TCM/ chlorate residue levels.
Learn about the Milk Quality research carried out in Teagasc Moorepark
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