EFFECTS OF PLANT EXTRACTS AS PRE-MILKING DAIRY COW TEAT SANITIZER - S. Mureza; C. J. Smit; M. C. Muya2and F. V. Nherera-Chokuda (Journal of Animal and Plant Sciences, 2020)
The aim of the study was to assess effects of cactus (Opuntia ficus-indica) and garlic (Allium sativum) extracts on cow teat sanitization and raw milk pathogenic bacteria. Cactus and garlic extracts have antimicrobial properties that are sourced from their micronutrients and secondary metabolites. Antimicrobial strength of cactus (Tormentosa, Meyers, and Corfu), and garlic extracts were compared against a pre-milking commercial teat dip (Biocell).A double Latin square design with six mid-lactating Holstein cows was used. The study found that cactus and garlic extracts inhibit Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) and Escherichia coli (E. coli).Moreover, Tormentosa and garlic extracts were most effective bacteria inhibitors at 1.56 mg/mL and 3.125 mg/mL respectively. As a result, commercial dip and Tormentosa and garlic extracts were tested as pre-milking teat sanitizers during summer and autumn. Summer results showed bacteria reduction ranging from 55-58% for garlic, 29-43% for Tormentosa and 33-59% for Biocell. Autumn bacteria count varied widely. Milk bacteria count also declined. Overall, garlic was the most effective in reducing milk and teat bacteria, while cactus was effective over time. Biocell results varied and this provides for consideration to utilize cactus and garlic extracts as pre-milking teat dip to combat pathogenic bacteria.
Keywords: journal article; Allium sativum; antibacterial activity; cactus; food safety; mastitis; milk pathogens