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An appraisal of methods used in the examination of retail samples of cows milk

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  19 October 2009

M. H. Greenwood ,
P. Gill ,
E. F. C. Coetzee ,
B. M. Ford ,
W. L. Hooper ,
S. C. W. Matthews  and
S. Patrick
M. H. Greenwood
Affiliation:
Public Health Laboratory, Poole General Hospital, Poole BH15 2JB
P. Gill
Affiliation:
Public Health Laboratory, West Dorset Hospital, Dorchester DTI 2JY
E. F. C. Coetzee
Affiliation:
Public Health Laboratory, West Dorset Hospital, Dorchester DTI 2JY
B. M. Ford
Affiliation:
Public Health Laboratory, Poole General Hospital, Poole BH15 2JB
W. L. Hooper
Affiliation:
Public Health Laboratory, Poole General Hospital, Poole BH15 2JB
S. C. W. Matthews
Affiliation:
Public Health Laboratory, Odstock Hospital, Salisbury SP2 SBJ
S. Patrick
Affiliation:
Public Health Laboratory, Odstock Hospital, Salisbury SP2 SBJ
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Summary

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The use of the methylene blue test for the examination of cows milk was investigated in an inter-laboratory survey. A poor relationship was found between results of these tests and total viable counts. Coliforms were detected in a large number of pasteurized milks, indicating frequent post-pasteurization contamination. No relationship was found between the results of the methylene blue test and the presence of coliforms.

Results from this survey highlight the need for reappraisal of the methylene blue test as a statutory method for the examination of milk. A total viable count and coliform test are suggested for providing information regarding dairy hygiene and the quality of the product at the point of retail sale.

Type
Research Article
Information
Epidemiology & Infection , Volume 100 , Issue 3 , June 1988 , pp. 369 - 378
Copyright
Copyright © Cambridge University Press 1988

References

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