Effect of milking duration on milk composition and somatic cell count
Milk and its composition are key factors influencing profitability of dairy farms [1]. Somatic cell count (SCC) in milk, in addition to other milk components, is crucial for monitoring milk quality and health conditions [2]. Mastitis in dairy cows is a concern worldwide. It is a multifactorial disease influenced by factors at both cow and herd levels, leading to substantial losses throughout the dairy chain [3]. This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between milking duration and key milk quality parameters, including fat and protein content, as wll as SCC. The analysis utilised data from 692 cows varying in lactation stage and number, collected during routine test-day milking. Cows were categorised based on milking duration and milk yield per session. Results revealed a negative association between high milk yield and milk component concentrations. Cows yielding ≤ 13.00 kg of milk produced significantly higher fat and protein levels compared with those yielding > 22.01 kg. Second-lactation cows producing 17.01–19.00 kg of milk exhibited higher fat and protein levels than their first-lactation counterparts. Shorter milking durations were generally associated with lower milk yield but higher fat and protein content. Specifically, cows milked for 5 min 31 s – 6 min 30 s had modestly higher fat and protein concentrations than those milked for ≤ 4 min 30 s. However, extended milking durations (6 min 31 s –7 min 30 s) during early lactation were linked to reduced fat and protein levels. Interestingly, longer milking durations (≥ 6 min 31 s) correlated with increased milk yield but also elevated SCC, indicating a potential compromise between production efficiency and udder health. These findings underscore the importance of optimising milking duration to balance yield, milk quality, and animal health. Further research may help refine milking strategies to enhance both productivity and welfare in dairy herds.