The Dairy Lab Training Program (DLTP) provides training and updates of testing requirements, procedures and science for dairy laboratory personnel performing regulatory, quality and safety testing for milk and dairy products.

Consumers demand dairy products that are safe and of high quality. Milk and other dairy products are tested from the farm through processing to ensure quality and safety are maintained. Much of this testing is required by regulatory agencies. Consistency, uniformity, and understanding in the testing program are essential.

In association with New York State Agriculture and Markets Laboratory Evaluation Officers (LEO), annual training programs are offered to laboratory personnel to provide updates of regulations and observed deficiencies, review standard procedures and overviews of the background science that is needed to fully understand the testing program. Generally, there are two programs offered; spring regional seminars held at five locations throughout the state and a summer hands-on program held at Cornell University. Additional training for new LEO`s and on-site training at industry laboratories are also performed.

There is greater uniformity in the dairy-testing program that ultimately results in higher quality and safer dairy products. Laboratory personnel are given the opportunity to improve their skills and knowledge, thus ensuring more accurate and meaningful results.

Nancy Carey (Cornell Food Science)