Milking

Machine milking: Modern milking machines are capable of milking cows quickly and efficiently, without injuring the udder, if they are properly installed, maintained in excellent operating conditions, and used properly. The milking machine performs two basic functions.

It opens the streak canal through the use of a partial vacuum, allowing the milk to flow out of the teat cistern through a line to a receiving container.

It massages the teat, which prevents congestion of blood and lymph in the teat.

Advantages of machine milking :

• It is easy to operate, costs low, and saves time as it milks 1.5 liters to 2 liters per minute.
• It is also very hygienic and energy-conserving.
• All the milk from the udder can be removed.
• The machine is also easily adaptable and gives a suckling feeling to the cow and avoids pain in the udder.

STEPS IN CLEAN MILK PRODUCTION:

• The animal should be washed before milking.
• Washing cows is best practice to minimize the bacterial entry.
• If calf is allowed for sucking, udder may be moist, cleaned with weak disinfectant solution later with fresh, clean water and wiped dry with a smooth and clean cloth.
• Hands of the milker should be clean and dry. Wet hand milking may result in high bacterial count in the milk.
• Nails of hands of the milker should be well trimmed.
• Milker should be free from all diseases.
• Milking barns should be well ventilated free from flies.
• Utensils used for milking should be clean and sanitized.
• Flavour producing feeds should be fed only after milking so that flavours will not appear in milk.
• Milk is kept in cool place to maintain the flavour and keeping quality.