Somatic cell count as a monitoring system for hygienic milk production in India: A review

The major alteration in the milk composition due to mastitis includes presence of somatic cells (neutrophills, monocytes, macrophages and mammary epithelial cells), bactericidal and bacteriostatic compounds and certain enzymes. Antibiotic residue violation and presence of foodborn pathogens with/without their toxins is another threat of immense importance. These changes in the milk account for the deterioration of the milk quality, risk of health hazards and also its acceptance in the international market. Of all these components, milk somatic cells are the single most widely used indicator of the udder health and mastitis. Somatic cell count (SCC) is used as a system for measurement of milk quality internationally. Strict legislation for monitoring the minimum SCC level is followed to ensure healthy milk in most of the developed countries. This paper introduces the concept of ‘Clean White Revolution’ and reviews the importance of SCC as a measure to ensure hygienic milk production in India. It also emphasizes upon a need to strengthen the existing legislations concerned.