SomaticScan Combo: somatic cells and milk composition

The SCC module directly counts stained cell nuclei optically. It helps identify animals and batches that need a repeat check or veterinary attention. The ultrasonic composition module supports routine estimation of fat, SNF, density, protein, lactose, salts, added water, freezing point and temperature. Together these results provide a broader view of raw-milk quality, but they do not replace a veterinary diagnosis, reference laboratory methods or the site’s approved procedures.

For SCC, 100 µl of original milk is mixed with dry fluorescent dye and 8 µl of prepared sample is loaded into a Somaticchip channel. The instrument records 12 channel fields and counts recognised cells automatically. For composition analysis, milk is drawn from a cup into a separate ultrasonic path. One common sample may supply the material, but the operator performs two separate procedures. SCC-chip rules cannot be applied to the composition module, and one result does not automatically validate the other.

The internal SOP defines the sequence. At milk intake, laboratories often run the rapid composition test first and then SCC for every sample or selected batches and animals. On a farm, the order may be reversed: elevated SCC is identified first, then composition and supporting information are collected. In both cases the sample must have one consistent identifier, sampling time must be recorded, and results from different animals or containers must not be mixed.

The SCC module does not require routine user calibration, but the whole process must be checked with control samples—from mixing and pipetting to the chip and algorithm. The ultrasonic module depends on the selected matrix and calibration. It should be verified on representative local samples across the working range against applicable reference methods. A constant offset may be corrected only after repeated measurements; variable error calls for investigation of sample preparation or recalibration.

The current manufacturer page and different manual editions show differing ranges and speeds for the ultrasonic module. These may relate to sensor version, factory configuration or calibration set. LabLog therefore does not copy the highest numbers from a general page into every quotation. Before ordering, we record the model, speed, matrices, parameters, ranges, options, consumables and data-transfer method in one agreed specification.

Combo is logical for a farm laboratory, reception point or smaller dairy plant where both controls are needed regularly but space and operator capacity are limited. One enclosure simplifies placement and service communication. The business case must use the actual flow: daily composition samples, the share requiring SCC, four-channel chip utilisation, repeats and quality-control ownership. If SCC is rare or composition is required across a very broad product range, two specialised solutions may be more rational.

If cell counting is the only need, standalone SomaticScan is simpler and avoids paying for an unused module. If only basic milk composition is required, MilkoTester Lite covers that task more compactly. For a deeper dairy-plant laboratory, broad dairy product coverage, higher reproducibility and centralised data, compare the task with FOSS MilkoScan Mars or MilkoScan FT3. The choice should follow the decisions the laboratory makes every day, not the number of functions on a product card.

LabLog clarifies sample flow and matrices, agrees the configuration, supplies the instrument and starter kit, commissions the system and trains staff in both workflows. Together with the customer we define labelling, repeat testing, SCC colour limits, composition-calibration checks and consumable planning. Warranty and ongoing service are provided within Uzbekistan. Before purchase, customers can bring representative samples to the LabLog showroom in Tashkent and test the complete scenario.