Which combination of indicators best reflects raw milk quality prior to pasteurization?

• A. Fat Content, Maturity, Viscosity.
• B. Standard Plate Count, Coliform Count, and Somatic Cell Count.
• C. Color, Odor, and pH.
• D. Protein content only.

Answer: (B)

Assessing raw milk quality before pasteurization relies on measuring microbial load, sanitation, and udder health. Standard Plate Count reflects the total viable bacteria in the milk, giving a direct sense of hygienic handling and the burden that pasteurization must overcome. Coliform Count signals sanitation status and potential fecal contamination; its presence points to lapses in milking hygiene or equipment cleanliness. Somatic Cell Count indicates udder health, with elevated levels suggesting mastitis and associated impacts on milk quality and shelf life. Together, these three indicators provide a comprehensive view of raw milk quality prior to pasteurization, capturing overall microbial safety, hygiene practices, and animal health. Other options focus more on composition or physical characteristics (like fat, color, pH, or protein alone) and don’t reliably reflect microbial safety and udder health, which are critical for assessing raw milk quality before heat treatment.