OAR 603-024-0582: Bacteria, Coliform, Somatic Cell, and Temperature Test Violations

Whenever two of the last four consecutive bacteria counts, coliform determinations, somatic cell counts, or cooling temperatures, taken on separate days, exceed the limit of the standard for the milk or milk product, the Department shall send a written notice thereof to the person concerned. This notice shall be in effect so long as two of the last four consecutive samples exceed the limit of the standard. An additional sample shall be taken within twenty-one days of the sending of such notice, but not before the lapse of three days. Immediate suspension of grade shall be instituted whenever the standard is violated by three of the last five bacteria counts, coliform determination, somatic cell counts, or cooling temperatures. No action is taken if the last test is within the grade limit. Cultured products are exempt from the standard plate count.