Topics:
Animal Refresher, Dairy Science
Significance of Coliform Bacteria in Milk
The presence of coliform bacteria in milk is indicative of:
- Faecal contamination — Correct Answer
- Blood contamination
- Dirty water contamination
- Nitrate contamination
Explanation:
Correct Answer: Faecal contamination
Coliform bacteria (mainly Escherichia coli) in milk are indicator organisms for faecal contamination. Their presence signifies that the milk has been contaminated with material of faecal origin, indicating poor hygiene during milking or processing.
Key Quality Tests and Their Significance
- Coliform count test → Faecal contamination ✔
- Phosphatase test → Inadequacy of pasteurization
- Methylene blue / Resazurin test → Bacterial contamination (extent)
- Hansa test → Mixing of cow & buffalo milk
- Organoleptic test → Colour, flavour, taste
Index Organism for Pasteurization
Coxiella burnetti (Q-fever agent) — most heat-resistant pathogen destroyed by pasteurization.
📚 About this Topic — Animal Refresher
This multiple choice question is from Animal Refresher, Dairy Science. It has 4 options with a detailed explanation of the correct answer. Practice more MCQs from Animal Refresher to strengthen your preparation.
