Impact of Climate Change and Non-Genetic Factors on Somatic Cell Count, Standard Plate Count, and Chemical Composition of Non-Chilled Commingled Goat Milk in Northern Cyprus

Milk quality is crucial in the dairy industry, affecting nutritional value, consumer preference, and revenue. Several non-genetic factors, such as region, season, farm size, and temperature-humidity index (THI), influence milk composition and microbiological quality. This study aimed to evaluate somatic cell count, standard plate count (SPC), and key milk composition parameters in non-chilled/chilled commingled goat milk from Northern Cyprus farms. Milk samples were collected once or twice monthly from bulk tanks. Somatic cell count and standard plate count were determined using fluoro-opto-electronic counter methods, while milk composition was assessed using standard laboratory procedures. The results showed that somatic cell count was significantly affected by farm size, season, and raw milk type, with higher somatic cell count levels observed in large farms and non-chilled milk. Standard plate count varied significantly by year but was not affected by season, farm size, or region factors. Temperature-humidity index had a significant impact on milk composition, increasing temperature-humidity index values leading to declines in lactose, protein, and casein, confirming the negative effects of heat stress. Although farm size and raw milk type had no significant effect on most milk components, large farms exhibited higher titratable acidity. The study highlights the impact of climatic change and multifactorial effects on goat milk quality and the interaction effects between years, season, THI, and management practices. It emphasizes the importance of providing proper management practices to mitigate the negative effects of harsh environmental conditions on milk contents and somatic cell count.

Cite this article as: Abdourhamane, I. M., & Arsoy, D. (2026). Impact of climate change and non-genetic factors on somatic cell count, standard plate count, and chemical

composition of non-chilled commingled goat milk in northern Cyprus. Acta Veterinaria Eurasia, 52, 0151, doi:10.5152/actavet.2026.25151.