NTON 03 027-17: Nicaraguan Mandatory Technical Standard on specifications for raw cow's milk

The Standard establishes the specifications that raw cow's milk intended for processing must meet. This standard applies to raw milk that has not undergone any additional process beyond filtration and cooling. Among its general provisions, it stipulates that the milk must be clean and free of colostrum, chemical residues, heavy metals, foreign residues and pesticides. In addition, raw milk must not have been subjected to treatments that alter its original components. The standard classifies raw milk into Class A, Class B, and Class C, depending on its microbiological count and other characteristics, with Class C not suitable for industrial processing of fluid milk. Likewise, the organoleptic characteristics that raw milk must have are detailed, such as being homogeneous, without foreign odors or flavors, and with a white or slightly yellowish color. The control methods that must be carried out in raw milk reception centers are also specified, including organoleptic tests and alcohol tests. This standard replaces the previous Technical Standard (03 027-99) and its application is under the responsibility of the Institute for Agricultural Protection and Health (IPSA).