Quality control of milk includes which of the following?

The quality control of milk encompasses several critical components that ensure it remains safe and meets health standards from production to consumption. Each aspect mentioned in the options plays an integral role in maintaining the quality of milk.

Transportation and herd health are vital elements; proper transportation ensures that milk is moved efficiently and safely from farms to processing facilities while maintaining the necessary temperature controls to prevent spoilage. Herd health directly affects the quality of the milk produced, as healthier cows are less likely to produce milk with contaminants or spoilage issues.

Milk handling and processing are also essential parts of quality control. This includes how the milk is collected, stored, and processed before it reaches consumers. Safe handling practices help prevent contamination, while effective processing methods, like pasteurization, kill harmful pathogens, ensuring the milk is safe for consumption.

Distribution and refrigeration balance are also important in preserving milk quality as it moves through the supply chain. Proper refrigeration prevents bacterial growth, which can compromise milk safety and quality, while efficient distribution ensures that milk reaches consumers in a timely manner.

By considering all of these aspects—transportation, herd health, milk handling, processing, distribution, and refrigeration—it's clear that a comprehensive approach to quality control is necessary to ensure that milk is safe, fresh, and