Introduction
The Thai Agricultural Standard TAS 6401-2015 “Good Practices for Raw Milk Collection Centers” was established to control the processes of receiving and collecting raw milk from farmers, storage, transportation, and quality control at the collection points in order to prevent contamination and quality deterioration, and to ensure that the collected raw milk is safe and meets the required standards prior to further processing.
Objective
To establish good practices for milk collection centers, covering raw milk receiving, cooling, storage, transportation, and member extension, in order to obtain raw milk of suitable quality for processing into products that meet standards and are safe for consumers.
Scope
This Thai Agricultural Standard prescribes good practices for raw milk collection centers covering the processes of receiving raw milk, cooling, storage, transportation, and member promotion, in order to obtain raw milk of good quality for processing into standardized and safe dairy products for consumers.
Key points of Good Practices for Raw Milk Collection Centers
Summary of Key Points of Thai Agricultural Standard (TAS 6401-2015) “Good Manufacturing Practices for Milk Collection Centers”
The seven key principles of good practices for milk collection centers
1. Raw Milk Receiving
- Purchasing criteria shall be clearly and fairly established, based on the quality of raw milk, such as somatic cell count (SCC) and total bacterial count.
- Raw milk shall be accurately weighed and the purchasing quantity shall be properly recorded.
- The temperature of raw milk shall be properly managed immediately after milking.
2. Raw Milk Storage
- Raw milk shall be stored in hygienic and appropriate containers, such as stainless steel storage tanks.
- The temperature of raw milk shall be controlled at an appropriate level (not exceeding 4 °C) throughout the storage period.
- The temperature of raw milk shall be periodically recorded.
3. Raw Milk Transportation
- Insulated transport vehicles shall be used to maintain the temperature of raw milk during transportation.
- The temperature of raw milk shall be properly controlled at an appropriate level during transportation.
- Transportation records shall be accurately and thoroughly maintained.
4. Raw Milk Quality Inspection
- The quality of raw milk shall be regularly inspected in accordance with the established inspection plan.
- Raw milk samples shall be collected for quality analysis.
- Raw milk that does not comply with quality requirements shall be properly managed.
5. Sanitation Management
- Operators and raw milk transport personnel shall maintain good personal hygiene.
- Machinery, equipment, and operation areas shall be properly cleaned and maintained in a sanitary condition.
- Waste and wastewater shall be properly managed and disposed of in an appropriate manner.
6. Traceability System
- A traceability system shall be established to track the source and delivery route of raw milk.
- Customer complaints shall be systematically managed.
7. Training
- Personnel shall be trained to acquire the necessary knowledge and skills for their duties.
- Farmers shall be provided with knowledge on the standards for producing quality raw milk.
Requirements for Milk Collection Centers
The Agricultural Standards Act B.E. 2551 (2008) stipulates the Thai Agricultural Standard TAS 6401-2015, which establishes good practices for milk collection centers. This standard is part of the Thai Agricultural Standards (TAS) issued by the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives.
Benefits of Good Practices
- The quality of raw milk is improved.
It helps reduce the risk of microbial and other contaminations, resulting in higher quality raw milk. - Product Safety
It ensures that dairy products made from raw milk are safe for consumers. - Market Confidence
It helps build consumer and market confidence in dairy products. - Industry Development
It helps promote the sustainable development of the national dairy industry.
