A METHOD OF ESTIMATING THE SOMATIC CELL COUNT OF MILK

摘要

The invention relates to a method of estimating somatic cell count for a liquid, typically milk. The method involves mixing a sample of milk with a detergent, for example a commercially available detergent such as a washing-up liquid, and then allowing the mixture drip through a narrow bore hole or tube. The time it takes a defined amount of the mixture drip through the narrow bore hole or tube is then correlated with SCC. Correlation may be carried out by any means, for example a standard curve of SCC and drip times, or by means of a pre-programmed processor which is adapted to receive data relating the drip time and correlate the data with a SCC estimate. A dripping device, and kit of parts, suitable for performing the method of the invention are also provided.