
30 Apr TCM (Trichloromethane)
TCM content in dairy products, especially butter, is also a very important quality parameter. Achieving the correct levels of TCM is essential from a market place perspective. Given the increased focus on this issue among our key international customers, Arrabawn will continue the TCM testing programme and education awareness at farm level with a view to potentially including it formally in the Milk Processing T&Cs.
The allowable limit for TCM in milk is 0.00155 mg/kg and this is influenced by cleaning and disinfection routines which use detergents containing chorine.
To maintain low chlorate and TCM levels, farmers needs to:
- Ensure that correct cleaning procedures are in place.
- Use 14 litres of water per milking unit to rinse the plant after the main wash cycle.
- Use approved detergent products at the recommended rates and avoid using products with excessive chlorine content.
- Buy in smaller quantity and use products as close as possible to the manufacturing date,
- Avoid stock piling products.
- Store products in a cool dark place away from sunlight.