Directions and principles of sampling raw milk in the dairy chain

Examination of raw milk samples provides important information to breeders, free practice veterinarians, inspectors, and processing facilities. Milk samples are collected at different stages of the dairy chain. The paper discusses most of the directions in which raw milk samples are tested at the stages of milk collection and storage. In order to standardize the proceedings prior to laboratory analysis, the paper cites regulations and guidelines specifying the appropriate sampling of milk, as well as the transport and storage of samples. Each sample collected for testing should be accompanied by a document that identifies the sample and the batch from which it was collected. Proper pre-analytical procedures are an important factor influencing the results of laboratory tests.