Evaluation of obtaining bovine milk in the municipality of Três Corações, Minas Gerais

Abstract

The present study aimed to evaluate the functioning of mechanical milking equipment and procedures for obtaining milk in dairy farms in the Minas Gerais municipality of Três Corações. General aspects of milk production were evaluated; the procedure and cleaning of the milking machines; education, behavior and knowledge of employees of 20 randomly chosen properties. Of the properties visited, 65% were classified as large milk producers; the average total milk production was 1,114 liters/day and the average number of lactating cows was 60 animals. Of the milking machines, all were mechanized and of these, 55% were bucket-to-foot type and 45% channeled. Of the employees, 75% had high school education, 10% had some type of training and all were unaware of current legislation. As for milking, high vacuum pressures, incorrect handling in the milk extraction procedure and in the cleaning process were found. As for the other procedures; such as mastitis treatment, milking line and dry cow therapy, all were empirically performed by the properties. At the end of the research, it was observed that the lack of information and training regarding the quality in the handling and hygiene of milking is a reality in the properties of Três Corações.