Hygienic quality of raw milk

The aim of the study was to determine the microbiological and cytological quality of raw milk delivered to a dairy co-operative in the Wielkopolska region and its milk classification according to Council Directive 92/ /46/EEC and Polish Standard PN-95/A-86002. The study was carried out over 1996, 1997 and 1998. During this period 149 601 samples of milk were analysed and the total bacteria count and number of somatic cells were evaluated. The results obtained show that the amount of extra-grade quality milk present in the milk samples collected in 1997 was twice as large as the amount of such samples collected in 1996 and that the amount of milk classified as third-grade milk was 10% lower. The following year of the research work showed a significant improvement in the microbial and cytological quality of the milk. Results of research work showed that only 30% of milk collected in 1998 could be classified as extra-grade milk according to the requirements of Polish Standards and, thus to those of the Council Directive of the European Union.