Minnesota Dairy Herds with Low Somatic Cell Counts (SCC)

Each year the Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) recognizes the top Minnesota dairy herds with low somatic cell counts (SCC). Since 2003, MDA and University of Minnesota dairy experts have worked with the state’s dairy farmers to lower somatic cell counts. Somatic cell count is a key indicator of milk quality – a lower SCC is better for cheese production and shelf life of bottled milk. Somatic cells occur naturally and are not a food safety concern. Dairy farmers monitor SCC because it can be used as a way of measuring the health of their cows.

The dairy producers on this list have achieved the goal of having an average SCC of 100,000 or lower in the previous year. The names appear in the order of lowest to highest average SCC.

Minnesota Dairy Herds with Low Somatic Cell Counts (SCC)

June 2026