Early detection and risk assessment of bovine subclinical mastitis related microorganisms and their potential survival during infant milk formula processing.

In early 2022, the use of antibiotics in dairy production as a blanket dry cow therapy to control mastitis was banned. This change may increase the risk of microorganisms related to subclinical mastitis entering the milk chain. This project is quantifying and mitigating this risk by implementing systems for early detection and quantification of subclinical-related microbes, including *S. aureus*, *S. uberus*, *Streptococcus*, and *Listeria* species in raw milk. It also predicts their survival potential under relevant Irish dairy processing conditions.

A risk assessment and an early detection system for these microorganisms will benefit safety and quality control in dairy production. This project is being carried out in direct collaboration with the Irish dairy industry.