Q. Evaluate Total Solids in Milk?

Total solids determination is a common procedure in many manufacturing plants using dairy products. The total solids in milk can be calculated from the specific gravity and fat percentage from the table wherein lactometer reading is taken at 60° F. Table 5.3 gives the lactometer reading for a given percentage of fat. You can refer to this table to calculate the total solids in milk.

Besides carrying out the total solids percentage from the indirect method of taking lactometer reading, a direct method of gravimetric analysis can also be used. This method involves accurately weighing a few grams of the material and subjecting it to heat until all moisture has been driven off on a water bath. The dry residue is weighed, its percentage calculated as total dry solids. We would be analyzing the total solids percentage in the given sample of milk in activity 3 of this practical.