OAR 603-024-0592: Examination for Somatic Cells

Examination of milk and enforcement of the standard for Grade A milk and milk products shall be as follows: (1) A Wisconsin mastitis test or D.M.S.C.C. shall be conducted on each producer's or producer-distributor's raw milk at least four times during separate months in each six-month period. (2) Except for the standard set forth in section (5) of this rule, a milk sample having a somatic cell count of 500,000 or more per milliliter (ml.) shall be deemed to be violative of the somatic cell standard. (3) Except for the standard set forth in section (5) of this rule, the three-out-of-five compliance method shall apply in the case of all abnormal milk showing 500,000 or more somatic cells per ml. except that a period of no more than three days shall be allowed between warning notice and the taking of the next official test (including a D.M.S.C.C. for enforcement purposes). (4) Except for the standard set forth in section (5) of this rule, whenever two of the last four consecutive somatic cell counts exceed the limit of the standard, the producer shall be given a warning letter which shall be in effect so long as two of the last four samples exceed the limit. An additional sample shall be taken but not before the lapse of three days. Immediate suspension of the milk shall be instituted whenever the standard is violated by three of the last five somatic cell counts. No action shall be taken if the additional sample is within the standard (less than 500,000 cells per ml.). Release from suspension shall be made with first satisfactory sample. (5) A sample of goat's milk having a somatic cell count of 1,500,000 or more per milliliter (ml.) or sheep’s milk having a somatic cell count of 750,000 or more per milliliter (ml.) shall be deemed to be violative of the somatic cell standard. Otherwise, the provisions of this section apply to goat's and sheep’s milk.