Comparative Study of Milk Composition and Somatic Cell Count in Murrah Buffaloes Reared under Farm and Field Conditions

Abstract

Somatic cell count (SCC) is an important indicator of mammary gland health and milk quality and may vary with parity and management conditions. The present study compared SCC and milk composition in Murrah buffaloes reared under farm and field conditions. Forty-eight buffaloes were divided into farm (n = 24) and field (n = 24) groups, with each group comprising 12 primiparous and 12 multiparous animals. Milk samples were collected hygienically and analysed for SCC, fat, solid-not-fat (SNF), protein, lactose, electrical conductivity, and pH. Data were expressed as mean ± SE and analysed by one-way ANOVA followed by Tukey's multiple-comparison test. SCC differed significantly among groups, ranging from 0.74 ± 0.05 to 1.24 ± 0.16 lakh cells/mL, with the lowest value in farm-reared primiparous buffaloes and the highest in field-reared multiparous buffaloes. Protein content ranged from 3.61 ± 0.11% to 4.22 ± 0.12%, with the highest value in field-reared multiparous buffaloes. Electrical conductivity and pH also differed significantly and were higher in field-reared multiparous buffaloes. Fat, SNF, and lactose did not differ significantly among groups. The findings indicate that parity and rearing conditions are associated with SCC and selected milk-quality indicators in Murrah buffaloes. Routine assessment of SCC together with electrical conductivity and pH may support evaluation of udder health and milk quality.