Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
Raw milk, a primary ingredient in dairy products, requires meticulous handling from collection to transportation to ensure safety and quality. India, being the world’s largest milk-producing nation, faces unique challenges in this regard. The Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 (FSS Act) mandates stringent protocols for dairy operations. Inadequate collection and transportation practices can lead to microbial contamination, affecting the final product's safety and nutritional value. This answer will delve into the critical steps involved in the collection and transportation of raw milk, highlighting key considerations for maintaining quality and complying with regulations.
Pre-Collection Practices & Milk Procurement
The journey of raw milk begins with careful selection of farms and adherence to hygiene protocols. Milk procurement centers (MPCs) play a vital role. Key practices include:
- Farm-Level Hygiene: Cleaning and sanitization of milking equipment (milking machines, buckets), regular veterinary checks of animals, and ensuring proper udder preparation.
- Quality Testing: On-farm testing for parameters like acidity, fat content, lactose, and presence of antibiotics/adulterants. The FSS Act mandates these tests.
- Producer Cooperatives: A significant portion of milk procurement in India is managed by cooperatives like Amul and Nandini, ensuring quality control and farmer support.
Transportation Methods & Temperature Control
Once procured, milk needs to be transported swiftly and safely. Temperature control is paramount to prevent bacterial growth.
Modes of Transport
| Mode of Transport | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
| Traditional Bullock Carts | Low cost, accessible in rural areas | Slow, prone to spillage, difficult to maintain temperature |
| Refrigerated Tanker Trucks | Fast, maintains temperature, hygienic | High cost, requires infrastructure |
| Motorized Tricycles/Scooters | Relatively fast, cost-effective for short distances | Limited capacity, temperature control challenging |
Temperature Management
- Cooling: Milk is typically cooled to 4°C (39.2°F) or lower immediately after milking.
- Insulation: Transportation containers should be well-insulated to minimize temperature fluctuations.
- Refrigeration: Refrigerated tankers are ideal for long-distance transport.
Challenges & Technological Interventions
Several challenges impact raw milk collection and transportation:
- Lack of Infrastructure: Poor road conditions and inadequate cold chain infrastructure in many rural areas.
- Adulteration: Adding water or other substances to increase volume is a persistent problem.
- Hygiene Concerns: Substandard practices at the farm level and during transportation.
- Traceability: Limited traceability of milk from farm to consumer.
Technological interventions can mitigate these challenges:
- IoT Sensors: Real-time temperature monitoring and tracking using IoT devices.
- Blockchain Technology: Enhancing traceability and transparency in the supply chain.
- Mobile Apps: Connecting farmers, collectors, and processors for efficient logistics.
Legal Framework & Regulatory Oversight
The FSS Act, 2006, and its subsequent regulations govern milk collection and transportation. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is responsible for enforcing these standards. Regular inspections and audits are conducted to ensure compliance. The Prevention of Food Adulteration Act, 1954, though largely superseded, remains relevant in certain contexts.
Conclusion
The collection and transportation of raw milk are critical steps in ensuring the safety and quality of dairy products. While India has made significant strides in milk production, continuous improvements are needed in infrastructure, technology adoption, and adherence to regulatory standards. Strengthening cold chain infrastructure, promoting traceability, and empowering farmers with better practices are crucial for building a robust and sustainable dairy sector that safeguards public health and supports livelihoods. The FSSAI’s role in consistent monitoring and enforcement remains paramount.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.