PortaSCC Instructions

InstructionsTel: 856.231.8894 www.portacheck.com DL0044iEN Rev. C0Running the Test Using the Reader (optional)The PortaSCC® milk test was developed for estimating the somatic cell count in individual cows. The test has been evaluated at universities in the USA and Canada and has been shown to have a good correlation with laboratory results. The PortaSCC® milk test is based on a chemical reaction between a dye on the test strip and an enzyme found on the cells in the milk. This reaction makes the test strip sample well change to a blue color. The darker the blue color, the higher the cell count.This test is intended solely for the estimation of somatic cell count in fresh cow milk. The test is not a laboratory reference method and should not be used as a diagnostic test. Consult a veterinarian before starting any treatment.Test PrincipleIntended Use• Forestrip• Collect a milk sample into a clean labeled container. The container does not have to be sterile. Mix the sample.• Add 1 drop of milk to the test strip sample well using the pipette provided. Let the milk absorb into the well.• Add 3 drops of Activator Solution to the sample well. Quick Screen • If color starts to develop in a few minutes, the cell count is very high.• Wait 45 minutes before using the Color Chart or Digital Reader.After 45 minutes• Estimate the somatic cell count by comparing the strip to the Color Chart or by using the Digital Reader.Precautions• Insert a clean blanking strip into the reader (face down and forward).• Remove blanking strip when you see a Strip and Drop symbol.• Insert prepared test strip into reader, face down and forward.• The results are shown in “x.xx” format. Multiply by 1,000,000 to obtain the number of somatic cells/mL (ex: 0.16 =160,000 cells/mL). • Wash and dry sample containers thoroughly before use.• Preservatives such as Bronopol will prevent the test from working. • Antibiotics will not interfere with the test.• Milk samples must be tested within 8 hours of milking.• If milk is refrigerated, allow it to warm to room temperature before testing.• Run the test in a shaded area out of direct sunlight at temperatures between 7°C and 35°C (45°F and 95°F).• Mix the sample before testing.• Use only the pipet provided in the kit.• Do not touch the pipet tip to the test strip when applying sample.Test Strips can be run individually or in groups. Write sample ID number on each test strip and sample container before testing.• Turn on the reader by pressing the blue button on the left. Wait for the code 543 to appear.See “Using the Reader” or for more detailed instructions, refer to the User Guide included with the Digital Reader.