The Milk Quality Improvement Program (MQIP): Providing support and adding value to the New York dairy industry
2007 Impact statement- Ralyea, Robert David
abstract
The Milk Quality Improvement Program (MQIP) utilizes a voluntary shelf life (VSL) program to analyze the sensory, chemical, and microbiological characteristics/profiles of dairy products manufactured in New York State. This program is designed to evaluate the overall quality and shelf life of grade A dairy products and to encourage and provide support to dairy plants to maintain and improve product quality. In addition, we have developed molecular microbiology capabilities to better research dairy-related bacteriological issues and solve specific problems related to contamination issues.
submitted by
- Ralyea, Robert D. | Extension Associate,Sr
issue being addressed
Our audience and stakeholders are the New York State Milk Promotion Board (NYSMP), dairy farmers, dairy plants and consumers of dairy products, predominantly in New York state, but our research is also valued around the world. We monitor dairy quality. Our research efforts are directed at extended shelf life and quality of dairy products produced in the state. Our specific efforts address the continuous improvements of dairy products in New York state, but benefit the dairy industry worldwide.
response
Currently, several dairies have cleaned up microflora and can guarantee as many as 18-21 days of shelf life. Work is ongoing to extend the shelf life even more. We`re currently looking specifically at the Preliminary Incubation Count as a method of predicting shelf life of fluid milk products.
impact assessment
The shelf life of dairy products produced in New York state and their sensory qualities have been dramatically improved over the last 10 years, as evidenced by data gathered by the Milk Quality Improvement Program and presented to the New York State Milk Promotion Board annually.
academic priority area
- Land-Grant Mission | CALS academic priority
- New Life Sciences | CALS academic priority
has geographic focus
- Pennsylvania | state
- Massachusetts | state
- Vermont | state
- Maine | state
- New Jersey | state
- New Hampshire | state
- New York State | state
funding source description
New York State Milk Promotion Board
key personnel
- Patricia Wood
- Shelley Laue
- Kathryn Boor
- Nancy Carey
- Tanya Pierik
- Nicole Woodcock
- Steven Murphy
mission focus
- extension/outreach | project type
- research | project type
From CALS annual faculty reporting. Imported on August 5, 2008