Question

Is not a platform test?

• A. Sediment test
• B. Turbidity test
• C. Alcohol test
• D. Smell and colour

Hint:

Platform tests are for raw milk and must be QUICK. Think: can this be done in a minute or two on a busy receiving dock? Sensory tests, alcohol test, COB test, and sediment test fit this description. Tests for pasteurization (phosphatase) or sterilization (turbidity) are done in the lab on the finished product.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
A "platform test" is a rapid test performed at the milk reception platform (dock) to quickly assess the quality of incoming raw milk and make a decision to accept or reject it. These tests must be fast and simple.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Let's analyze the options:
(A) Sediment test: This is a rapid platform test where a standard volume of milk is filtered through a cotton disc to visually check for insoluble dirt and foreign matter.
(B) Turbidity test: This test is used to check the efficiency of sterilization in milk. It works on the principle that sterilization denatures whey proteins. If the sample is properly sterilized, adding a reagent will not cause turbidity. This is a laboratory test for processed milk, not a rapid platform test for raw milk.
(C) Alcohol test: This is a rapid platform test where an equal volume of alcohol (usually 68-72% ethanol) is mixed with milk. If the milk coagulates, it indicates high developed acidity or disturbed salt balance, meaning it will not withstand heat processing.
(D) Smell and colour: This is part of the organoleptic or sensory evaluation, the very first and most basic platform test performed by the milk grader.
Step 3: Final Answer:
The Turbidity test is a laboratory test for sterilized milk and is not a platform test for raw milk reception.