Hygienic Practices of Milk Collecting and Processing: Dairy Farms of Injil District-Herat Province

Abstract

Milk is recognized as an essential component of the human diet, particularly for infants and young children, due to its comprehensive nutritional profile. Maintaining proper milk hygiene is vital for protecting public health and preserving milk quality throughout the production and supply chain. This study examined hygienic practices in milk collection and processing across dairy farms in the Injil District of Herat Province, Afghanistan. Using a cross-sectional study design, it aimed to assess the sanitary measures implemented in milk handling and production within the region’s dairy sector. A systematic sampling approach was employed to select 150 farms, each with a minimum of 10 dairy cows, as the study population, which was conducted between March and May 2023. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews with farm managers, who responded to a pre-prepared questionnaire based on prior research, which focused on four main areas: farm hygiene, milk collection methods, milk storage and transportation, and farmers' knowledge of milk hygienic practices. The questionnaire was translated into the local language to ensure precise and clear responses. It covered topics such as cleaning protocols for milking equipment and facilities, udder washing and milking techniques, types of containers used for milk storage, temperature control during storage, transportation methods, and farmers' knowledge of hygiene regulations. Collected data was entered into SPSS version 27, coded, and analyzed using descriptive statistics such as frequencies, percentages, tables, and graphs. The findings revealed that 97% of respondents were male and only 3% were female. Regarding educational levels, 37% were illiterate, 35% had completed secondary education, and 15% held a bachelor’s degree. In terms of hygienic practices, only 25% of farmers washed cows’ udders before and after milking, while 56% used warm water and soap for handwashing. Furthermore, 45% of farms stored milk at the recommended temperature of 4°C, whereas 38% stored milk at room temperature, increasing the risk of contamination. Concerning equipment, 43.3% of farmers used plastic containers, and 39.3% used aluminum containers for milk storage. In terms of transportation, 84% transported milk using motorcycles, which posed challenges for maintaining temperature control and hygiene. The study highlights significant gaps in milk collection, storage, and transportation practices despite a general awareness of health risks. Training farmers, improving infrastructure, and promoting the use of standard equipment are essential to enhance milk quality and safety.