Producers should be aware that no level of detectable inhibitor (antibiotic) residue is permissible in milk and will result in the rejection of the load if positive results are found when the milk arrives at the processor. All loads are tested for inhibitors prior to being received at a plant.
Random Antibiotic Testing
Individual producer samples are checked once each month for the presence of Beta lactam through the Ministry testing program. However, due to increased sensitivity and expanded antibiotic testing by processors in recent years, the BC Milk Marketing Board (BCMMB) also increased antibiotic testing on producer samples in February 2018. Producers samples are tested at random, four times per year, using the same sensitive equipment processors are using. A positive result for antibiotics through processor testing, Ministry Beta Lactam testing, or the BCMMB 4x per year random testing will all result in infractions. Please review the BCMMB’s non-qualifying milk policy for further information.
Tetra based Foot-Wraps
The BCMMB would like to take this opportunity to inform producers of the possibility of a positive result occurring after applying Tetra-based foot wraps. While the BCMMB cannot be certain whether or not your farms foot wrap procedure will lead to a positive antibiotic result, you are highly recommended to discuss and work with your Veterinary clinic to ensure your farm is taking the appropriate precautions. Current testing for Tetra based drugs are quite sensitive and can result in a positive result even at very low levels.
Producers are reminded to work with their veterinarians to ensure that proper procedures are followed, and no inhibitor residue is present in your milk. Producers should be aware of all drugs being used on their farm and ensure milk is free and clear.
For more information on the BCMMB Non-Qualifying Milk Policy as well as an overview of the Quality and Component Testing, please review the information on the Milk Quality section of our website: Milk Quality
Testing facilities for antibiotics are scarce. We recommend that you work with your veterinarian to ensure that you have a plan to test your milk, for the drugs that you use on farm, when needed.
If you have any further questions please contact Kelly Harris at 604-854-4479 kharris@bcmilk.com, or Woody Siemens at 604-854-4476 wsiemens@bcmilk.com