Determinants of raw milk quality under a smallholder production system in selected areas of Amhara and Oromia National Regional States, Ethiopia

Abstract

The determinants of raw milk quality were studied in 384 households from six districts of Amhara and Oromia National Regional States, Ethiopia. The analysis revealed that there is a significant difference (P<0.01) in all physico-chemical milk quality parameters among the districts. The overall mean percentages of fat, solid non-fat (SNF) and protein obtained were 5.22, 8.44 and 3.12 in that order. Protein level had positive and negative significant (P<0.01) correlations with lactose and freezing point respectively. Mean total bacterial count (TBC/ml), total coli form count (TCC/ml) and somatic cell count (SCC) were 1.1x10 8, 3.0x10 4 and 5.5x10 5, respectively and there were significant differences between study sites. Milk handling and adulteration practices were the most likely causes for the observed difference in microbial quality of raw milk. Breed, parity number, feeding system, farming experience and distance from dairy technology dissemination centers had significant influence on fat and protein percentages. Practicing different dairy technology which is supported with a continuous training on how to manage the farm and integrated with a near proximity veterinary service; stronger milk quality control establishment and quality base payment should be practiced to discourage adulteration.