Management factors affecting milk yield, composition, and quality on smallholder dairy farms

• DOI: 10.1007/s11250-025-04294-x
• Publication Date: 2025-01-29T01:35:56Z
• Authors: Marie Anne Mukasa...; Jean Pierre Mpats...; Jean Baptiste Nda...; Ewa Wredle; Renée Båge
• Keywords: Milking; Somatic Cell Count

Abstract A cross-sectional study on 156 smallholder dairy farms in Rwanda was carried out to assess the association between farm management practices and milk yield quality. pre-tested questionnaire used collect data cow characteristics practices. Milk recorded at household level, composition monitored using a Lactoscan device (Milk Analyzer). Somatic cell count (SCC) determined DeLaval counter (DCC). Delvotest SP-NT kit determine antibiotic residues raw milk. Most cows were kept zero-grazing system (84.6%) most farmers had less experience of production (78.2%). Mean daily 3.9 L/cow associated with type breed, milking frequency, stage lactation, parity. content protein, fat, lactose solid non-fat, density normal showed no different Based SCC analyses, 65.8% samples than 300,000 cells/mL graded as acceptable for delivery collection centre (MCC) 12.9% tested positive residues. These findings suggest low yields that are attributable breed prevalent high level mastitis, among other factors. The results also indicate possible non-compliance withdrawal periods, resulting milk, which has public health implications consumers. Routine testing MCC both is important quality control.