Top-quality milk

In Finland milk samples are taken from all dairy farms twice a month. These are then analysed to check whether the milk's bacteria and somatic cell counts fall within the limits set by EU legislation.

The number of bacteria must be under 100,000/ml, with a count of under 50,000/ml seen as particularly favourable. Valio's target is for the bacteria count to be under 6,000/ml.

The somatic cell count should be under 250,000/ml, while the legal limit is 400,000/ml. Valio's target is for the somatic cell count to be under 130,000/ml.

The fat content, protein content and freezing point of the milk are also tested.

Cold storage

The milk must be cooled from 37C (its temperature during milking) to less than 4C in under two hours. This cooling takes place on the farm in an insulated, stainless steel tank.