Producing high-quality dairy products is both an art and a science. Thorough testing is required in order to not only meet health standards but also ensure a delicious and safe experience for each and every consumer of your product. While it’s easy to understand the importance of tests for pathogens such as listeria and salmonella, other microbiology tests are a bit more complex. Here is what you need to know about three key microbiology tests provided by Daily Laboratories.
Microbiology Test 1 - Aerobic Plate Count
Through the use of microbiology tests to measure Aerobic Plate Count (APC), producers can better understand and act upon the microbial quality and the freshness of their products. This microbiology test allows you to better understand the bacterial population of your dairy products. This way, you can monitor the remaining shelf life of your products before they are sent out, thus ensuring a fresh product for your consumers. If the APC result is too high, this is an important warning sign that there are quality issues with your dairy products.
Microbiology Test 2 - Coliform
Testing for coliform bacteria in dairy products can help determine whether sanitation practices in the plant require improvement. Ideally, the hot water and sanitizers used to clean production facilities will kill any coliform in the facility and proper refrigeration of the final product will prevent growth. Without necessary sanitation protocols, coliform growth can result in health and safety problems for consumers. Ensuring the coliform counts of your milk and dairy products fall within the desirable range is crucial for sharpening protocols and protecting consumers.
Microbiology Test 3 - Antibiotic Residue
A third key microbiology test that should be performed on raw milk is testing for antibiotic residue. Antibiotic residue can have long-term effects on both a large and small scale. On a large scale, when foods with antibiotic residue hit the shelves and people consume them, bacteria continue to become more resistant to antibiotics. This health concern has become increasingly serious in recent years as professionals worry that antibiotic treatments are becoming less effective. More immediate consequences include issues with ripening and curdling, a decrease in flavor and quality, and risks related to consumers with allergies and sensitivities to antibiotics.
Daily Laboratories provides crucial microbiology tests to help you ensure you’re compliant with food safety measures and providing an excellent product for your consumers. Holding FDA, NCIMS, and ISO certifications, Daily Laboratories can help you gain a thorough understanding of your warehouse and products through microbiology tests. With almost 40 years of experience and a dedicated staff, we provide reliable testing for the dairy industry. Get in touch with us to learn more today!
