Farmers pay special attention to the diets and living conditions of their animals. Just as some people consult dietitians to help them eat right, many dairy farmers consult with feed nutritionists to design a diet for their cows that is well balanced. Good food is the first step toward good milk.
Properly sanitized equipment and thorough cleaning of the cow’s udder prior to milking is equally important. As the cow is being milked, her milk flows through refrigerated pipes to a sanitized bulk tank where it is immediately cooled down from her body temperature -- about 100 degrees F -- to 38-45 degrees F. This preserves freshness and guarantees safety. The milk will soon be picked up by a milk truck, which serves as a giant refrigerator on wheels.