INVESTIGATIONS OF THE HYGIENIC STATUS OF PASTEURIZED MILK SUPPLIED BY SELF-SERVICE RETAIL TAP SYSTEMS

In the period January to June 1990, 50 samples of pasteurized milk, obtained from self-service taps, were examined bacteriologically. The type of tap, supply company, age of milk and storage temperature were obtained for each sample. The samples were obtained from the >>steel cow<< and >>Frilich-self-service<< tap systems. Of the 23 samples from the >>steel cow<< outlet, six obtained excessive bacterial counts and of the 27 samples from the >>Frilich-self-service<< system, three had increased bacterial counts. The possible causes for the alterations in these milk supplies are discussed with respect to their original bacterial status, in terms of the supply company, the holding temperature and the duration of storage. As result it is recommended that an expiry date of four days is implemented.