Physicochemical and sanitary parameters of bovine bulk milk processing centers in the Amazon region, Peru

Abstract

Evaluating quality and microbiological parameters in bovine milk processing centers is essential for ensuring public health and product quality and positively impacting the local economy. This study aimed to evaluate the physicochemical and sanitary parameters of bovine milk in the Amazon region. For this purpose, 31 samples were collected from milk processing centers in the region. The following quality parameters were evaluated: somatic cell count; physicochemical parameters: fat, protein, nonfat solids, lactose, ash, pH, and density; and microbiological parameters: mesophilic aerobic bacteria and total coliforms in the raw milk. For data analysis, mean comparison tests were performed using Kruskal‒Wallis and Tukey tests, and cluster and principal component analysis was performed using R software version 4.3.2 and InfoStat version 2018p. The results for the 31 milk processing centers showed significant differences in all the parameters evaluated; fat, somatic cell count, and density were within the technical specifications of the Supreme Decree N° 007-2017-MINAGRI. Microbiological analyses revealed significant variability in total coliforms and mesophilic aerobic bacteria. Cluster analysis revealed five groups with similar characteristics, with Group 1 exhibiting high somatic cell, lactose, and ash contents and Group 3 exhibiting higher fat contents. Principal component analysis highlighted the significant contributions of total coliforms, aerobic bacteria, and somatic cells to the degradation of milk quality. Although somatic cell counts meet specific standards, elevated levels of coliforms and aerobic bacteria are of concern. These findings are essential for ensuring food safety and improving milk quality.