What economic impact does a high somatic cell count have on cheese production?

A high somatic cell count (SCC) is indicative of mastitis or other issues in dairy cows, which directly affects the quality and composition of the milk produced. When SCC is elevated, the quality of milk deteriorates, which in turn affects cheese production negatively.

Specifically, higher levels of somatic cells can impair the milk's ability to coagulate effectively during the cheese-making process. This results in lower cheese yield, as the curd formation is compromised, and potentially lowers the efficiency of the entire cheese production process. Additionally, the presence of high SCC can lead to lower protein content and affect flavor, further decreasing overall yield and quality.

In summary, the economic impact of a high somatic cell count manifests most significantly through the decreased efficiency and effectiveness of cheese production, leading to lower yields and potentially affecting the market value of the cheese produced.