Economic Benefits for Farmers from Determining the Total Somatic Cell Count in Raw Milk

The quality of milk is of paramount importance for dairy farms, processors, and consumers. One of the key indicators of cow health and milk quality is the total somatic cell count (SCC). High SCC levels often signal health issues, such as mastitis, and lead to economic losses for the farmer. Regular measurement and monitoring of this indicator can bring significant financial benefits and improve the overall efficiency of the farm.

What Are the Economic Benefits for Farmers?

 

1. Higher Milk Purchase Price
Farmers who produce milk with a low total somatic cell count often receive a higher price for their product. Dairy processors offer bonuses and premiums for high-quality milk, which is better suited for producing dairy products with superior taste, texture, and stability. The regulatory requirements for this indicator vary across countries, but in most cases, the SCC limit is up to 400,000 cells/ml.
Example:

  • Milk with an SCC under 200,000 cells/ml may be priced 5-10% higher than milk with over 400,000 cells/ml.
  • In some regions, milk with an SCC over 400,000 cells/ml may be rejected by dairy processors or purchased at a lower price.

2. Reducing Animal Treatment Costs
Mastitis is one of the most common causes of high somatic cell count. Treatment for mastitis requires:

  • Veterinary service costs.
  • Purchase of antibiotics.
  • Disposal of milk containing antibiotic residues.

Early detection of elevated SCC allows for quick intervention and preventive measures, which significantly reduces treatment costs and losses from discarded milk.

3. Increasing Cow Productivity
Cows with a low somatic cell count are healthier and produce more milk of higher quality. According to scientific research:

  • Cows with healthy udders and an SCC under 200,000 cells/ml can produce 5-10% more milk compared to animals with chronic infections.
  • Farmers can optimize production and increase the herd's milk output, leading to greater profitability.

 

4. Lower Antibiotic Costs and Improved Milk Quality
Farms that regularly measure somatic cell count reduce the need for antibiotic use. This leads to:

  • Lower medication costs.
  • Avoidance of losses from discarded milk containing antibiotic residues.
  • Maintaining a cleaner and safer milk product, which is more desirable to consumers and dairy processors.

 

5. Improving Herd Reproductive Efficiency
Healthy animals reproduce more effectively. A high somatic cell count can be an indicator of chronic health issues that negatively impact:

  • Cow fertility.
  • The duration of the lactation period.
  • Overall longevity of the animals in the herd.

By maintaining a low SCC, farmers improve reproduction rates, reduce the need to purchase new animals, and optimize herd maintenance costs.

 

6. Reducing Milk Wastage
If the milk exceeds the acceptable SCC limits, it may be rejected by dairy processors. This means:

  • Lost revenue from milk sales.
  • Costs for disposal or processing of the rejected milk.

With regular monitoring and control, farmers can minimize the risk of losses and ensure better return on their investments.

 

7. Access to Premium Markets and Organic Certification
Milk with a low total somatic cell count has a higher chance of being certified as organic or high-quality milk, which provides access to:

  • Higher-paying markets.
  • Contracts with premium dairy brands and export companies.
  • The opportunity to produce specialized, value-added dairy products.

 

How Can Farmers Benefit?

  1. Invest in Regular Monitoring
    Farmers can benefit by regularly measuring somatic cell count to quickly identify health issues like mastitis, allowing for early intervention and treatment, which can improve overall herd health and productivity.     
  1. Adopt Technology for Accurate Data
    By using automated somatic cell counters, farmers can ensure accurate, real-time data to make informed decisions about herd management, milk quality, and treatment protocols.
  1. Focus on Preventive Health Measures
    With regular SCC monitoring, farmers can adopt preventive measures to reduce the risk of infections, decrease reliance on antibiotics, and maintain healthier cows, leading to reduced treatment costs and higher milk yield.
  1. Leverage High-Quality Milk for Premium Markets
    By maintaining a low SCC, farmers can ensure their milk meets premium quality standards, enabling them to access higher-paying markets, secure contracts with dairy processors, and even produce organic or specialized dairy products.
  1. Enhance Profitability
    Through improved herd health, better milk quality, and reduced losses from discarded milk, farmers can increase their overall profitability and create long-term sustainability for their farms.

 

            Conclusion

          By regularly monitoring somatic cell count and taking proactive measures, farmers can significantly improve herd health, increase milk quality, and optimize their farm's profitability. Utilizing modern technologies like the Automated SCC SomaticScan, implementing early intervention strategies, and collaborating with dairy processors for better market opportunities can all contribute to enhanced economic performance. Investing in SCC measurement not only improves milk quality but also ensures long-term sustainability and competitiveness in the dairy industry.