Critical Milk Quality Parameters Influencing Milk Quality Management in Selected Dairy Facilities in Mbarara District, Uganda. A cross-sectional study.

Abstract

Introduction Agriculture remains an important sector of Uganda's economy and a major source of livelihoods, food, and household income. This study aims to identify the critical milk quality parameters affecting milk quality management in selected dairy facilities in Mbarara District, Uganda.  Methodology This study employed a mixed-methods research design combining qualitative and quantitative approaches within an action research framework. The study population consisted of approximately 1,000 dairy stakeholders in Mbarara District, including farmers, collection centre staff, transporters, and processors. Surveys and questionnaires. Primary data were collected using a closed-ended questionnaire.  Results Butterfat content was identified as a key determinant of milk quality, with 72.0% of respondents acknowledging its importance in pricing and processing decisions. Milk with butterfat levels below 3.2% was frequently rejected by processors. Solid-not-fat was identified as a critical parameter, with 65.0% of respondents indicating awareness of its importance. Milk with SNF levels below 8.3% was often downgraded or rejected. 80.0% of respondents reported that high bacterial counts frequently resulted in milk rejection. The main causes of contamination included poor hygiene during milking, use of unclean containers, and delays in transportation. Temperature control was found to be critically inadequate across the dairy value chain: 85.0% of respondents lacked access to proper cooling facilities, resulting in milk being stored and transported at temperatures above the recommended 4°C.  Conclusions  Butterfat content, solid-not-fat, bacterial contamination, and temperature control are confirmed as the critical parameters governing milk quality management in Mbarara District, with hygiene- and cold-chain-related parameters (bacterial load and temperature) presenting the more urgent and widespread deficiencies relative to compositional parameters.  Recommendations Regulatory and extension agencies should intensify farmer training on milking hygiene, container sanitation, and basic pre-sale quality testing.