Which of the following tests is commonly used to determine the quality of milk?

The Somatic Cell Count (SCC) is a critical test used to assess the quality of milk because it provides an indication of the health of the mammary gland and the presence of infection, particularly mastitis. A high SCC suggests that there is an elevated number of white blood cells in the milk, which is a response to infection. For dairy producers and processors, maintaining low SCC levels is essential, as it is a key factor in determining milk quality and influences consumer acceptance as well as pricing in the market.

In the context of milk quality testing, while the other tests listed—such as the pH test, thermal stability test, and fat content analysis—are indeed significant, they serve different purposes. For instance, the pH test can indicate freshness and spoilage, the thermal stability test measures the milk’s ability to withstand heat treatment, and fat content analysis helps determine the nutritional value and profitability of milk. However, none of these tests directly reflect the health status of the milk-producing animal in the same manner that SCC does. Therefore, the SCC is particularly vital for monitoring and maintaining the overall quality of milk.