FOSS announces the sales release of the FossomaticTM 7 DC, providing differential somatic cell count (DSCC) for better management of Mastitis in dairy cattle, for instance, by allowing earlier detection of the disease and a more rational use of antibiotics on the farm.
The test is available either with the Fossomatic 7 DC or as part of the CombiFoss 7 DC which integrates Fossomatic 7 DC and MilkoScan 7 instruments.
A new tool to tackle Mastitis in dairy herds
A rapid test for the total somatic cell count in a milk sample was introduced by FOSS in the 1980’s. It has provided a good indication of Mastitis and has helped to more than halve the incidence of the disease in dairy herds around the world. However, more indicators are required because, on average, 50 mastitis cases per 100 cows per year still occur.
Affected cows produce less milk and often need to be treated with antibiotics. In this case, their milk cannot enter the food chain and the discarded milk can easily add up to 100-300 kg. Considering all costs related to mastitis such as reduced productivity, discarded milk and increased labour, a single case costs the dairy farmer anything between €100 and €950.
The DSCC test combined with the existing test for total somatic cell count, gives a higher level of analysis information to help dairy farmers and their advisors manage the disease and reduce its impact on farm economy and productivity.
Commenting on the development of the new test, ICAR Chairman, Hans Wilmink said: “Despite well-established programs for managing dairy herds, Mastitis remains a major barrier to both sustainability and profit in dairy farming. ICAR welcomes any developments by the industry that can help farmers to reduce the incidence of Mastitis, which is why we are particularly interested in the new FOSS CombiFoss 7 milk-testing platform. Any system that provides detailed indication of the udder health of a cow will aid herd-management and more rational use of medicines on the farm.”
