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Instructions for the Proper Collection
of Bulk Tank Milk Samples:
Sampling
Raw Milk: Suggested Precautions
1.
Protect
sampling instruments from exposure to contamination before and
during use.
2.
When using a
dipper, remove it from the sanitizing solution, drain it
completely, and rinse it at least twice in milk before
transferring the sample.
3.
Handle sample
containers and caps aseptically. Do not drop, lay down, touch
the inside of, or otherwise contaminate the containers or
caps. If the container becomes contaminated or is suspect, it
will be discarded and another will be used.
4.
Pre-sterilized bags and containers will not be carried in
pockets of clothing. Clipboards, covered containers, or boxes
will be used to carry empty single-service containers.
5.
Multi-use
sterile containers will be pre-cooled in the sample case as
needed. If moisture is present, containers will be rinsed
with milk twice before filling with the test portion.
6.
Typically, a
single universal sample will be taken and analyzed for all
components to be tested. If there becomes a need to collect
separate samples, the sample will be taken first using aseptic
technique. Samples will be taken be taken from the same
source and at the same time. Regulations often govern how
samples may be taken and the handling of those samples.
Recommended Protocols for Sampling Bulk Tank Milk:
1.
Measuring
milk: If the measuring stick is in the tank, dry the stick at
milk level with a clean single-service paper towel, make
measurement, and record. If the measuring stick is outside
the tank, sanitize the stick with chemical sanitizer and dry
it at the milk level with a clean single-service paper towel.
Make the measurement and record the result.
2.
Agitate milk
adequately: Agitate tanks for 5 minutes if tanks have been
filled within 30 minutes. Agitate tanks for 10 minutes if
tanks are larger than 3,800 liters (1,000 gallons). Agitate
tanks for 15 minutes if tank has been standing for more than
30 minutes after filling.
3.
Temperature
check of milk: Use a sanitized, standardized thermometer and
record the result on the sample form. Compare the accuracy of
the bulk tank thermometer with the test thermometer monthly
and record results.
4.
Collection of
samples by hand:
A.
Rinse dipper
2 times in milk. Dip at least 15-20 cm (6-8 inches) to obtain
a representative sample.
B.
Do not hold
sample container over milk while transferring the sample.
C.
Fill the
sample containers not more than � full (after closure) to
permit proper mixing of the samples at the laboratory. We
will not test milk if containers are too full. Whirl Pak Bags
should be left with � of the volume dedicated to air space
after the bag is closed and sealed.
D.
Submit two
representative samples for analysis from the bulk tank with at
least a combined amount of 100 ml and label with sample ID.
All tanks should be sampled and labeled individually,
including identification of each tank. Samples should be
submitted for separate analysis and reporting.
E.
Record name,
date, collection temp and time, sample ID or number on sample
submission form.
F.
A temperature
control should be taken at collection point (Temperature
controls should be labeled as TC with time, date, temperature,
and location identification).
G.
Samples
should immediately be placed in a sample case with an
appropriate refrigerant capable of maintaining a temperature
between 0�C to 4.4�C.
H.
If samples
will not arrive to laboratory within 24 hrs, the sample should
be frozen. If Mycoplasma analysis is requested, keep
one of the samples unfrozen and label �Mycoplasma
Analysis Requested.�
I.
Dippers
should be rinsed immediately with tap water and returned to
their sanitizing solution.
J.
Sample
reports should be prepared.
K.
Samples and
sample data will be transported to the laboratory and analysis
will begin within 24 hours of collection
L.
Refrain from shipping samples on weekends or holidays
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