Undetected mastitis is a major cause of bulk milk grades in the first few weeks of supply. Failing to check milk is suitable for the vat when transitioning cows from the colostrum herd to the milkers may result in a grade.

All cows should have their colostrum milk withheld from the vat for at least eight milkings.

Guideline 3 provides practical information on:

• Making sure a cow has exceeded her Dry Cow Treatment minimum dry period, to avoid inhibitory substance grades
• Making sure milk containing colostrum or high SCC is not included in the supply vat.

Technote 3 provides technical information for farmers and advisers on:

• Reducing the risk of inhibitory substance grades
• Reducing the risk of grading due to colostrum or high SCC