Imagine a dairy farmer checking the somatic cell count in cow milk and realizing that a small increase could mean hundreds of dollars lost per cow each year. The link between somatic cell count in cow milk and both farm profitability and milk quality remains strong. For example, herds with a bulk tank somatic cell count above 200,000 cells/mL see profit decline by over $200 per cow annually, with notable reductions in milk yield and quality. Regular monitoring using a somatic cell count tester helps farmers detect early signs of udder health issues, prevent milk loss, and avoid processors’ rejection due to poor milk quality. Monthly checks allow for early intervention, supporting both milk safety and cow health.
Regular SCC monitoring not only identifies subclinical mastitis but also supports better hygiene and management, directly improving milk quality and income.
Key Takeaways
- Regularly testing somatic cell count score helps farmers detect udder infections early, preventing milk loss and improving milk quality.
- High somatic cell count signals mastitis, which lowers milk yield and changes milk composition, reducing its value and shelf life.
- Good milking routines, proper hygiene, and equipment maintenance keep somatic cell counts low and support healthy cows.
- Training farm staff and keeping accurate records improve mastitis management and help maintain high milk quality.
- Lowering somatic cell count increases farm profits by producing better milk that meets quality standards and avoids penalties.
Somatic Cell Count in Cow Milk
SCC and Milk Quality
Somatic cell count in cow milk serves as a primary benchmark for milk quality assessment in the dairy industry. Scientists define somatic cell count as the number of somatic cells per milliliter of milk, with these cells mainly consisting of leukocytes and epithelial cells shed from the udder. High levels of somatic cells often signal mastitis, a common and costly disease in cows. When mastitis occurs, the immune function of the udder responds by increasing the number of somatic cells in the milk. This response helps fight infection but also alters the composition of the milk.
Milk quality depends heavily on the composition and physical properties of the milk. As the somatic cell count in cow milk rises, the composition of the milk changes. Research shows that increased somatic cells lead to higher fat and protein content, but they also reduce lactose and nonfat solids. These changes result from damage to the epithelial cells in the mammary gland and increased permeability of blood vessels, which allows more serum proteins and immunoglobulins to enter the milk. The results include elevated proteolytic enzyme activity, which can degrade milk proteins and affect the sensory properties of dairy products.
International dairy standards set strict thresholds for milk somatic cell count to ensure milk quality. Most countries, including the European Union, New Zealand, and Australia, set the maximum allowable somatic cell count in cow milk at 400,000 cells/mL. The United States allows a higher limit of 750,000 cells/mL, but there is a trend toward lowering this threshold to improve milk quality and reduce mastitis rates. The table below summarizes these thresholds:
| Country | Typical SCC Threshold (cells/mL) |
|---|---|
| European Union | 400,000 |
| New Zealand | 400,000 |
| Switzerland | 350,000 |
| Australia | 400,000 |
| Canada | 400,000 |
| United States of America | 750,000 |
Producers who maintain a low somatic cell count consistently achieve better milk quality assessment results. These results translate into higher yields, improved product composition, and greater acceptance by processors. Farmers who monitor somatic cells regularly can identify subclinical mastitis early, preventing further deterioration of milk composition and quality.
Tip: Regular testing for somatic cell count in cow milk helps farmers detect subclinical mastitis before it affects milk quality and herd profitability.
Udder Health Indicator
Somatic cell count in cow milk acts as a reliable indicator of udder health in cows. When the udder experiences inflammation due to mastitis, the immune function of the cow increases the number of somatic cells in the milk. This response helps fight infection but also signals the presence of subclinical mastitis, which often goes unnoticed without regular testing.
Research supports the use of somatic cell count as a key tool for monitoring udder health. Scientists have shown that somatic cell count correlates closely with the inflammatory status of the mammary gland. High somatic cell counts indicate active infection, while lower counts suggest healthy tissue. Differential somatic cell count, which distinguishes between types of immune cells, further improves the accuracy of mastitis detection. Automated machines now allow for large-scale measurement of both total and differential somatic cells, making it easier for farmers to track udder health across entire herds.
Routine monitoring of somatic cell count in cow milk enables early detection of subclinical mastitis. This practice allows farmers to intervene quickly, reducing the risk of chronic infection and minimizing losses in milk yield and composition. Genetic studies also show that selecting cows with lower somatic cell counts can improve resistance to mastitis, leading to healthier herds and better milk quality.
The results of regular somatic cell count testing provide valuable information for milk quality assessment and herd management. By focusing on udder health, farmers can maintain optimal milk composition, reduce the incidence of mastitis, and ensure that their milk meets international quality standards.
Factors Affecting SCC
Milking Method
Milking method plays a significant role in the somatic cell count of milk. Cows milked with automatic systems often show higher levels of somatic cells compared to those milked in parlors. Studies reveal that automatic milking systems can increase the probability of somatic cell counts exceeding 200,000 cells/mL, especially in single-breed herds. This rise in somatic cells links to a greater risk of mastitis and subclinical mastitis, particularly in later lactation stages. However, the method alone does not determine outcomes. Proper milking routine, equipment maintenance, and attention to cow health remain essential. Farms that focus on consistent milking routines and immediate intervention for udder issues see lower somatic cell counts and reduced mastitis cases. Breed, parity, and lactation stage also interact with milking method, influencing the overall somatic cell profile in milk.
Hygiene Practices
Hygiene during milking directly impacts somatic cell count and the prevalence of mastitis. Cleanliness of cows, bedding, and equipment reduces the risk of infection and keeps somatic cells at healthy levels. Poor hygiene, such as reusing wipes or neglecting udder cleaning, spreads pathogens and increases the likelihood of subclinical mastitis. Observations show that cows classified as very clean have the lowest somatic cell scores. Rainy months often bring higher somatic cell counts due to worsened hygiene conditions. Effective practices include single-use wipes, regular equipment sanitation, and maintaining clean housing. These steps help control mastitis and keep somatic cells in milk within optimal ranges.
Environmental Stress
Environmental stress, especially heat and humidity, affects somatic cell count in cows. When temperatures rise and humidity increases, cows experience stress that weakens their immune function. This stress leads to higher somatic cell counts and a greater risk of mastitis and subclinical mastitis. Studies show that a temperature-humidity index above 78 triggers physiological changes in cows, reducing feed intake and altering behavior. These changes make cows more susceptible to infections, raising somatic cells in milk. Poor housing conditions and dirty bedding further increase bacterial exposure, compounding the risk. Farmers who monitor environmental conditions and provide adequate cooling and clean bedding help protect cow health and maintain low somatic cell counts.
Milking Practices Impact
Teat Preparation
Teat preparation stands as a critical step in reducing somatic cell count in milk. Cows benefit from thorough cleaning and disinfection before milking. Research shows that disinfectant-based methods outperform simple washing and drying. The table below compares common teat preparation techniques and their effects on bacterial counts, which directly influence somatic cell levels in milk:
| Teat Preparation Method | Effect on Staphylococcal Count | Effect on Streptococcal Count | Effect on Coliform Count | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| No Preparation | Baseline | Baseline | Baseline | Highest bacterial counts expected |
| Washing and Drying | Significant reduction | Significant reduction | Moderate reduction | Better than no prep |
| Chlorhexidine Foam | Most effective | Moderate reduction | No significant effect | Best for staphylococci |
| Chlorine Foam | Good reduction | Most effective | No significant effect | Best for streptococci |
| Iodine (0.25%) | Good reduction | Moderate reduction | Not significant | May increase iodine residues |
| Wipes (Disinfectant) | High reduction | High reduction | No significant effect | Combines physical and chemical action |
Proper milking procedures, including post-milking teat dipping with antimicrobial solutions, further reduce new infections and lower SCC in subsequent milkings.
Equipment Maintenance
Equipment maintenance plays a vital role in controlling somatic cell count in milk. Machine milking, when supported by regular inspection and cleaning, generally results in lower SCC compared to hand milking. Farms that implement management practices such as wearing gloves, using automatic takeoffs, and ensuring cows stand after milking consistently achieve better milk quality. A consistent milking routine, combined with routine equipment checks, prevents bacterial contamination and supports udder health.
Tip: Regularly inspect and sanitize all milking equipment to maintain low somatic cell counts and high-quality milk.
Dry Cow Management
Dry cow management practices influence somatic cell count in the next lactation. Hygiene measures, such as swabbing teat ends with surgical spirit before dry cow therapy, reduce bacterial entry and lower SCC after calving. Environmental strategies, including providing more lying space and increasing rest periods, help minimize bacterial exposure for cows. Early fore-milking after calving removes pathogens before infection can establish. The choice of dry cow product, such as internal teat sealants or antibiotics, does not significantly affect SCC outcomes. Instead, management practices and environmental control during the dry period have the greatest impact on milk quality and udder health.
A well-structured milking routine and attention to detail in all practices ensure that cows produce milk with optimal quality and low somatic cell counts.
High Somatic Cell Count
Causes of High SCC
Veterinary research identifies mastitis as the leading cause of high somatic cell count in dairy cows. Pathogens such as Streptococcus uberis, Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus dysgalactiae, and Streptococcus agalactiae trigger infections that result in elevated somatic cells in milk. These infections often lead to subclinical mastitis, which remains undetected without regular testing. The immune response releases white blood cells and epithelial cells into milk, raising the somatic cell count. Minor pathogens like Corynebacterium species and coagulase-negative Staphylococci cause moderate increases in somatic cells, but major pathogens drive counts above 200,000 cells/ml. Environmental factors, including season and herd size, also influence results. Parity and days in milk further affect the composition and somatic cell levels.
| Cause Category | Specific Causes / Factors |
|---|---|
| Mastitis-Causing Pathogens | Streptococcus agalactiae, Streptococcus dysgalactiae, Trueperella pyogenes, Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus uberis, Escherichia coli, Corynebacterium bovis, coagulase-negative Staphylococci |
| Infection Type | Intramammary infections leading to subclinical and clinical mastitis |
| Environmental Factors | Season (summer and autumn associated with higher SCC), herd size, farm type (company-owned farms better) |
| Cow-Related Factors | Parity, days in milk (DIM) |
| Biological Mechanism | Increased SCC due to influx of white blood cells and epithelial cells responding to infection and tissue damage |
| Economic Impact | Subclinical mastitis (detected by high SCC) has higher economic impact than clinical mastitis |
Effects on Milk Yield
High somatic cell count directly impacts milk yield and milk production. Cows with subclinical mastitis experience reduced milk yield due to inflammation and tissue damage in the udder. Diseases such as mastitis, retained placenta, ketosis, and metritis frequently accompany high somatic cell count, further lowering milk production. The influx of somatic cells disrupts mammary tight junctions and reduces lactose synthesis, leading to decreased milk yield. Hormonal changes, including suppressed prolactin secretion, limit mammary alveoli proliferation and milk production after calving. Results from large-scale studies show that each increase in linear score SCC reduces daily milk yield by up to 0.676 kg in third-lactation cows. Lower lactose and protein content in milk also result from elevated somatic cells.
| Evidence Aspect | Summary |
|---|---|
| Dataset | 1,930,376 lactations from 867 Argentinean grazing dairy herds over 14 years. |
| SCC Thresholds | Healthy (<150,000 cells/mL), mild (150,000–400,000), moderate (400,000–1,000,000), severe (>1,000,000). |
| Milk Yield Impact | Increase of one unit in linear score SCC (LS-SCC) associated with daily milk yield decreases of: 0.349 kg (first lactation), 0.539 kg (second lactation), 0.676 kg (third lactation) |
| Additional Findings | Higher SCC also linked to reduced conception odds, indicating broader health and productivity impacts. |
Note: Subclinical mastitis often causes greater economic losses than clinical mastitis due to undetected reductions in milk yield and composition.
Impact on Dairy Products
High somatic cell count alters the composition of milk, affecting the results of dairy product processing. Elevated somatic cells decrease fat, lactose, and casein, while increasing whey protein, lactoferrin, sodium, and chloride. These changes force processors to adjust formulations for cheese, yogurt, and fluid milk. Results show that high somatic cell count accelerates lipolysis and proteolysis, leading to rancidity and bitterness in pasteurized milk. Sensory defects appear between 14 and 21 days, shortening shelf life and lowering quality ratings. Milk with low somatic cell count maintains high organoleptic quality for 21 days, while high somatic cell count reduces shelf life due to rapid enzymatic degradation.
| Aspect | Low SCC Milk (45,000 cells/ml) | High SCC Milk (849,000 cells/ml) |
|---|---|---|
| Lipolysis Rate | Baseline | 3 times faster increase in free fatty acids |
| Proteolysis Rate | Baseline | 2 times faster casein hydrolysis |
| Sensory Quality | Maintained high organoleptic quality for 21 days | Sensory defects (rancidity, bitterness) detected between 14-21 days, lowering quality ratings |
| Microbial Counts | Low (<100,000 cfu/ml) | Low (<100,000 cfu/ml) |
| Impact on Shelf Life | Full 21-day shelf life with good quality | Reduced shelf life due to sensory defects after 14 days |
Contagious mastitis and subclinical mastitis both contribute to high somatic cell count, which negatively affects milk composition and the results of dairy product manufacturing.
Monitoring and Reducing SCC
SCC Tester Use
Modern dairy farms rely on advanced technology to monitor somatic cells in milk. Somatic cell counter for milk delivers rapid and accurate results comparable to traditional flow cytometry. The device requires no specialized operator and feature a compact design, making it ideal for on-farm use. Somatic cell count tester allows frequent and immediate SCC checks, enabling farmers to respond quickly to changes in udder health.
- Somatic cell count test kit provide real-time analysis of somatic cells, supporting early detection of mastitis before clinical symptoms appear.
- Cow-side meters offer sensitive and user-friendly detection, helping identify subclinical mastitis in individual cows and bulk tank milk.
- Integration of SCC data with other health indicators enhances mastitis management and supports comprehensive herd health strategies.
Frequent SCC testing using a somatic cell count tester enables timely intervention, reducing the risk of mastitis and improving milk quality. Early identification of elevated somatic cells allows targeted treatment, minimizing unnecessary antibiotic use and discarded milk. Farms that maintain low somatic cell count benefit from improved productivity and profitability.
Tip: Regular SCC checks with a somatic cell count tester help detect subclinical mastitis early, supporting lower SCC and better milk results.
Record Keeping
Accurate record keeping forms the backbone of effective mastitis management and SCC control. Dairy operations establish comprehensive databases that track cow identification, days in milk, mastitis cases, treatments, and milk culture results. Monitoring individual cow somatic cell counts and identifying cows with high SCC supports early intervention and targeted management.
- Maintain detailed records of SCC, mastitis cases, treatments, and outcomes for each cow.
- Conduct regular milk microbiological cultures on cows with high somatic cells to determine infection sources.
- Calculate mastitis rates and distributions to understand herd health trends and improve management practices.
- Select record-keeping software that supports data entry, reporting, analytics, and integration with other farm systems.
- Train staff on proper data entry, management, and error correction to ensure accuracy.
Regulatory limits on somatic cell count in major dairy-producing countries drive the need for precise record keeping. These regulations have led to notable reductions in SCC levels and improved milk quality. Accurate records support compliance, operational efficiency, and profitability by enabling farms to track trends and adjust protocols as needed.
Note: Consistent record keeping allows farms to monitor results, identify patterns in mastitis and subclinical mastitis, and update udder health protocols for better milk quality.
Staff Training
Staff training plays a critical role in maintaining low somatic cell count and improving milk results. Farms that implement herd-specific Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and employ trained staff with agricultural backgrounds see significant reductions in new mastitis infections. Effective training involves hands-on implementation, employee involvement in SOP development, and regular supervision.
A scientific study found that integrating SOPs with staff training lowers bulk tank somatic cell count and enhances udder health. Farms with lower SCC produce more milk per cow per day, achieve better pregnancy rates, and reduce death losses. Training ensures that employees understand mastitis management protocols, proper milking routines, and record-keeping procedures.
- Involve staff in developing and updating SOPs for mastitis management and SCC control.
- Provide regular training sessions on milking techniques, equipment maintenance, and hygiene practices.
- Supervise and motivate employees to maintain consistency and adherence to protocols.
- Review and update training materials based on SCC results and herd health trends.
Alert: Well-trained staff contribute to lower SCC, improved milk quality, and better overall herd health by following best practices for mastitis and subclinical mastitis management.
Farms that prioritize staff training, accurate record keeping, and regular SCC monitoring with a somatic cell count tester achieve superior milk results and maintain low somatic cell count. These practices support early detection of mastitis, effective in-lactation mastitis management, and continuous improvement in management practices.
Economic and Quality Benefits
Financial Impact
High somatic cell count in cow milk leads to substantial financial losses for dairy farms. Researchers estimate that each cow with elevated somatic cell count can cost a farm between $1.20 and $2.06 per day. Chronic mastitis increases these losses, as prolonged high somatic cell count reduces milk yield and quality. Farms experience decreased profits due to lower milk prices and discarded milk that fails to meet quality standards. The following table summarizes the financial impact of high somatic cell count and the economic benefits of different management practices:
| Metric | Financial Impact (USD) | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Average Economic Loss per Farm (3 months) | 533 – 557 | Loss from reduced milk price and discarded milk |
| Profit Difference Over 3 Years (Healthy vs. Baseline Farm) | 2,978 less | Baseline farm with high SCC earns less profit |
| Economic Gain from Culling a Sick Cow (3 years) | 145 | Gain from selling cow and feed savings |
| Economic Gain from Treating a Sick Cow (3 years) | 1,186 | Gain from successful treatment, more cost-effective than culling |
Effective management practices, such as regular monitoring and prompt treatment, help reduce these losses. Farms that prioritize early intervention and maintain low somatic cell count see improved results in profitability and herd health.
Farms that invest in management practices targeting somatic cell count control protect their bottom line and ensure sustainable operations.
Improved Milk Quality
Reducing somatic cell count directly enhances milk quality and increases market value. Dairy processors prefer milk with low somatic cell count because it meets strict quality standards and requires fewer adjustments during processing. The following points highlight the benefits of maintaining low somatic cell count through effective management practices:
- Low somatic cell count preserves milk composition, including fat, lactose, and casein, which are essential for dairy product quality.
- Reduced enzyme activity prevents degradation of milkfat and protein, resulting in better flavor, taste, and appearance.
- Milk with low somatic cell count avoids off-flavors and maintains a longer shelf life, improving results for both producers and processors.
- Processors reward farms with financial premiums for consistently high milk quality, while penalties and rejections decrease.
- Management practices that focus on hygiene, equipment maintenance, and staff training support these positive results.
Maintaining low somatic cell count benefits both the farm and the dairy industry. Producers deliver milk that meets consumer expectations and regulatory requirements, while processors achieve consistent results in product quality.
Conclusion
Dairy farms achieve success by forming a milk quality team, identifying infection sources, and tracking milk quality data. Regular milk testing, proper milking routines, and equipment sanitation help control somatic cell count. Farms that maintain low SCC see higher milk yield, better milk composition, and improved profitability. Scientific studies confirm that low SCC supports udder health and long-term farm success. Farmers should adopt advanced milk monitoring tools and best practices to ensure every drop of milk meets the highest standards.
FAQ
What Is Considered a High Somatic Cell Count in Cow Milk?
A somatic cell count above 200,000 cells/mL signals possible mastitis. Most countries set regulatory limits between 400,000 and 750,000 cells/mL. Milk exceeding these thresholds often fails quality standards.
How Often Should Farmers Test Somatic Cell Count?
Experts recommend monthly SCC testing for each cow. Farms benefit from weekly bulk tank checks. Regular monitoring helps detect mastitis early and supports better herd management.
Can Somatic Cell Count Affect Cheese and Yogurt Quality?
Yes. High SCC reduces casein and lactose, which are essential for cheese and yogurt production. Processors may reject milk with elevated SCC due to poor texture and flavor.
What Are the Main Ways to Reduce Somatic Cell Count?
Farmers should focus on hygiene, equipment maintenance, and staff training. Effective teat preparation and prompt mastitis treatment also lower SCC.
Tip: Consistent record keeping supports early intervention.
Do Automatic Milking Systems Increase Somatic Cell Count?
Studies show that automatic milking systems may raise SCC if not properly managed. Routine equipment checks and strict hygiene protocols help maintain low SCC levels.