SCC on and off the farm

(c) Hoard's Dairyman Intel 2026

July 23, 2026

By Jessica Miller, Associated Editor

Thinking of your farm’s somatic cell count (SCC) as a measure of herd health? While you’re at it, it also pays to remember that SCC levels can impact both dairy processors and consumers down the line. A recent article updated on the Penn State University extension website reminds producers that SCC matters off the farm, too.

More processors are holding the line when it comes to higher SCC levels by refusing milk that exceeds a certain threshold. Higher SCCs have been associated with changes in milk composition, along with higher activity of enzymes that are detrimental to milk quality, shorter shelf life, and even defects in the finished products.

hoards.com

SCC on and off the farm

Thinking of your farm’s somatic cell count (SCC) as a measure of herd health? While you’re at it, it also pays to remember that SCC levels can impact both dairy processors and consumers down the line.

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