Parlor analysis

Abstract

Milk quality on the dairy farm is influenced by the cow environment, the milkers, and the milking machine. A total milk quality program must therefore not overlook the milking system. The milking system can influence milk quality, bulk tank somatic cell counts, and clinical mastitis rates in many ways. Understanding what each part of the milking system does and how to test that it is functioning appropriately is key to providing milking system evaluation and milk quality troubleshooting services at your dairy practice.