Detecting pathogens in milk on dairy farms: key issues for developing countries

Publication date: 31/07/2016
Extent: 16 pages

Contributions by: Delia Grace, Silvia Alonso, Johanna Lindahl, Sara Ahlberg and Ram Pratim Deka, International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI), Kenya

Chapter synopsis: Testing for pathogens in cow’s milk on dairy farms has assumed importance these days. Pathogen testing is done to ensure milk quality and milk safety and on-farm pathogen testing is being explored. This chapter discusses this crucial issue, first by identifying the rationale for on-farm pathogen testing. Next, the most important pathogen detection tests are described. Two case studies from Tanzania and India are presented; one deals with controlling disease in cattle and the other looks into how on-farm pathogen detection will improve milk quality and enable market access to smallholders. Finally, this chapter discusses future trends in on-farm pathogen testing.

DOI: 10.19103/AS.2016.0005.19