CLEAN MILK PRODUCTION 673 



EQUIPMENT AND METHODS 



Clean, Healthy Cows. — The first essential in the production of clean, 

 healthy milk is to have cows that are clean and free from disease. The milk 

 from emaciated animals, or those suffering from any disease, should not be 

 sold. The milk from cows having inflamed udders or sore teats should not 

 be put into the general supply. The cows should be comfortable in order 

 to produce normal milk. Any unusual condition or disturbance will cause 

 them to produce abnormal milk. They should be kept in dry, clean, 

 properly-bedded stalls. The food should be free from mustiness and no 

 decomposing silage or wet foods should be given after they become mouldy. 

 The drinking water should be clean and fresh. 



Most of the dirt that finds its way into the milk pails falls from the 

 bodies of the cows. It is essential, therefore, that the cows be kept clean. 

 One of the most important factors in keeping cows clean is to have the 

 platforms on which they stand the proper length, so that the manure will 

 drop into the gutter. Adjustable stanchions are also desirable, so that the 

 proper alignment can be made on the platform. Cows kept in the stable 

 should be groomed at least once a day, but this should be sufficiently long 

 before milking time to permit the dust to settle. Wiping the udder and the 

 flanks with a clean, damp cloth requires only a short time and will do much 

 to remove dirt that would otherwise fall into the pail. It is practical, 

 where clean milk is being produced, to clip the udder and flanks occasion- 

 ally. This prevents the dirt from sticking, and makes it possible to keep 

 the cows cleaner. 



Stables. — Expensive barns are not essential to the production of clean 

 milk. The health of the cows and the methods of the milker are of greater 

 importance and have more effect upon the finished product. Good con- 

 struction and convenient arrangement of the stable may lessen the work, 

 keep the cows more comfortable and have a beneficial effect upon the 

 milkers. 



The barn should be located on well-drained land and be free from 

 contaminating surroundings. Horses, chickens, stagnant water and 

 manure piles, when near the stable, may pollute the air. Odors are easily 

 absorbed by milk. The stable floor should be of concrete or some other 

 material that does not absorb the liquid manure, and at the same time 

 should be sufficiently smooth to be easily cleaned. The walls should be 

 smooth and free from ledges to avoid collecting dirt. The occasional use 

 of whitewash on the walls and ceiling is recommended. 



The barn should not be overcrowded and at the same time should not 

 have an excessive amount of space in cold climates. From 500 to 1000 

 cubic feet per cow is satisfactory. Too much light cannot be provided. 

 Sunlight destroys bacteria and also makes a healthy atmosphere for the 

 cows. The more light the better, and it is well that it be evenly distributed 

 and that the windows be located, if possible, so that the light can shine into 

 the gutter. 



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