ANALYSIS OF SCC AND SPC INDICES IN MILK TANKS AND THEIR CORRELATION WITH GOOD PRACTICES IN DAIRY CATTLE FARMING

Abstract

The present study aimed to evaluate the influence of adopting Good Milking Practices (GMP) on milk quality parameters, specifically the Standard Plate Count (SPC) and Somatic Cell Count (SCC), in rural properties of the Montes Claros (MG) microregion. This is a descriptive, documentary, retrospective, and quantitative research conducted in October 2023, with a sample of six farms from the local dairy basin. Data were analyzed through Tables and tables created using Excel software. The results indicated that property P2, which showed the highest adherence to GMP, obtained the lowest SCC (264,000 somatic cells/mL) and SPC (21,000 CFU/mL) values, reflecting better hygienic-sanitary milk quality. In contrast, property P3, with lower adherence to the recommended practices, presented the highest SCC (1,170,000 somatic cells/mL) and SPC (23,000 CFU/mL) indices, indicating milk of lower quality. It is concluded that the proper implementation of Good Agricultural Practices has a direct positive influence on reducing SCC and SPC indices, promoting the production of milk with higher microbiological and hygienic-sanitary quality, thus contributing to food safety and enhancing the product’s market value.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56238/sevened2025.039-004