Evolution and factors influencing somatic cell count in raw milk from farms in Viçosa, state of Minas Gerais

The somatic cell count (SCC) of refrigerated raw milk reflects the occurrence of mastitis in the herd and the management of rural property. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the SCC of the refrigerated raw milk and its determinant factors in dairy properties of Vicosa, State of Minas Gerais. Monthly, milk samples were taken from 44 cooling tanks during 2012. A structured questionnaire was applied to evaluate the production and management characteristics of the herds. There was a significant variation (p < 0.05) in the mean SCC of the milk, which was lower from June to August. Higher mean SCC and percentages of samples above the limit set by the legislation were observed in months of higher rainfall and ambient temperature (p < 0.05). Mechanical milking, lower milk yield, productivity, inadequate milking procedures, equipment hygiene, and water quality were all factors that influenced (p < 0.05) the SCC of raw refrigerated milk. Milker training is required for production of low SCC milk.