What is a significant effect of somatic cell counts in milk?

Somatic cell counts (SCC) serve as an important indicator of milk quality. When the SCC is measured in milk, it reflects the health status of the cow, particularly in relation to the presence of mastitis, an infection of the udder. A high somatic cell count typically indicates the presence of inflammatory cells, which are a response to infection or stress in the udder, suggesting that the milk may be of lower quality and not suitable for human consumption without processing.

In the dairy industry, monitoring SCC is vital because it directly impacts both the sensory properties of milk, such as taste, and its physical properties, including texture and shelf stability. Therefore, maintaining low somatic cell counts is crucial for ensuring high-quality milk production that meets safety and quality standards.

The other options may not accurately reflect the relationship between SCC and milk quality. While it’s conceivable that increased shelf life could be advantageous, high somatic cell counts actually tend to decrease shelf life due to the potential presence of pathogens and spoilage organisms. Similarly, while there might be minor effects on fat content and flavor, these are not the primary concerns linked to SCC. The most significant effect of somatic cell counts is indeed their role as a reliable indicator of milk quality.