By Dairy Dimension Staff Writer
At a landmark gathering of dairy experts and innovators at the ICAR-International Committee for Animal Recording and International Dairy Federation (IDF) Conference in India, a new chapter in milk quality assurance was written. FOSS, a global leader in analytical solutions for the food and agricultural industries, formally launched its latest breakthrough: BactoScan™ 5—a high-throughput bacteria analyzer designed for modern raw milk testing.
The timing and location of the launch could not have been more symbolic. India, home to the world’s largest dairy sector, owes much of its milk production success to the White Revolution, a transformative movement led by the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB). With NDDB Chairman Meenesh Shah in attendance at the event, the message was clear: India is ready for the next leap—from mass production to precision quality.
The Technology Behind BactoScan™ 5
The BactoScan™ 5 leverages cutting-edge flow cytometry, an advanced method that enables direct, individual cell counting of bacteria in raw milk. Unlike traditional plate counting methods, which can take up to 48 hours for results, the BactoScan™ 5 delivers results within minutes—allowing real-time decisions and significantly improved operational efficiency.
Designed for high-throughput laboratories, the system can analyze up to 200 samples per hour, making it ideal for large dairy processors and milk collection centers. It adheres to ISO/IDF and FDA/NCIMS standards, ensuring its credibility across global markets and regulatory bodies.
More importantly, the rapid and precise data from the BactoScan™ 5 facilitates fair milk payment systems, where producers are rewarded not just for volume but also for hygienic quality. This aligns seamlessly with the evolving quality-driven ethos of India’s dairy sector.
“Innovation is the Future of Quality”
Speaking at the launch, NDDB Chairman Meenesh Shah emphasized the importance of innovation in sustaining the gains of India’s dairy revolution. “We must not rest on past achievements. The future of Indian dairy lies in strengthening our quality infrastructure, from farm to fork,” he said.
This sentiment was echoed by representatives from FOSS and IndiFOSS, the company’s Indian partner, who played a pivotal role in adapting the solution to local industry needs.
Key Features at a Glance:
- Technology: Flow cytometry with green laser-based detection
- Sample Types: Raw milk from cow, buffalo, goat, and sheep
- Analysis Capacity: 65 to 200 samples/hour
- Performance Range: 10,000 – 20,000,000 IBC/ml
- Compliance: ISO 21187 | IDF 196, ISO 4833-1, ISO 16297, FDA/NCIMS
- Connectivity: FOSS IQX™ with LIMS integration
- Reagent System: Ready-to-use kits with automatic enzyme dosing
- Sustainability: 15–20% less reagent use, low chemical footprint, minimal waste
A Milestone for India’s Dairy Sector
India’s dairy industry is undergoing a silent transformation. While production continues to rise, there is growing focus on quality assurance, traceability, and export competitiveness. In this context, the arrival of BactoScan™ 5 is not just a product launch—it is a strategic enabler of India’s ambitions in premium dairy and value-added segments.
By equipping stakeholders with rapid, reliable bacterial count technology, FOSS is empowering the industry to meet both domestic expectations and global standards.
Looking Ahead
As India seeks to expand its dairy footprint beyond borders and cater to a more discerning domestic market, tools like BactoScan™ 5 will be central to the mission. From strengthening milk payment systems to ensuring consumer safety, the device brings both economic and public health value to the table.
FOSS and IndiFOSS have taken a bold step with this launch, but its true impact will be measured by how swiftly and widely this technology is adopted. If the excitement at the launch ceremony is any indicator, the future looks promising.
Proud of the past. Excited for the future. And now—equipped for excellence.
