Frequently Asked Questions about Abnormal Spectrum Screening Module

What is the Abnormal Spectrum Screening Module (ASM) ?

ASM is a software solution that enables screening of samples to detect abnormal milk samples in routine milk testing.

Abnormal Spectrum screening is not a calibration, but a model where the content (normal milk profile, validations, etc) is defined by the user.

How does Abnormal Spectrum Screening work?

Normal pure milk samples are used to define the pure milk profile. Incoming milk samples are tested against this normal profile. A Warning is given if a milk sample is outside the definition of normal milk.

Will there be false positive and false negative results?

Possibly. The software contains features that can be set to minimize the number of false negative and false positive results, and it is possible to get an understanding of the level of false positive and false negative results by testing milk samples spiked with an adulterant.

 
Is reference analysis needed?

No! The model is validated by measuring a number of normal and abnormal samples with known content of adulterant.

Does Abnormal Spectrum Screening Module work on my milk?

Yes, the screening and warning levels are customized in the software settings, and the normal milk profile is defined from your pure milk samples.

Can I use Abnormal Spectrum Screening Module to discriminate between different sorts of milk?

Yes, you can discriminate between different sorts of milk, like buffalo and cows milk.

Can I use Abnormal Spectrum Screening Module to detect cleaning agent accidentally added to the milk?

Yes!

Can I use Abnormal Spectrum Screening Module to screen for a new cleaning agent used on farms in my region?

Yes! Normal milk samples are used to define the pure milk profile and spiked samples with the abnormality in question are used to perform a validation of the model. From this, the detection limit is defined and thereby the sensitivity and specificity.

Can I use Abnormal Spectrum Screening Module to screen milk samples for unknown abnormalities?

Yes, you can screen simultaneously for any adulterant absorbing in the mid IR area!

What is the detection limit for an adulterant?

The detection limit depends on the type of adulterant and on whether it is a known or unknown adulterant. For example, the detection limit for melamine as unknown adulterant is typically 250 - 500 ppm, whereas the detection limit for melamine as known adulterant is typically 75 - 100 ppm.

What gives normal variation to milk spectra?

A number of factors influence normal variation to milk, including
• Breed (different breeds have different composition)
• Feeding (gives regional and seasonal variations)
• Health (diseases may influence milk composition)
• Stage of lactation
We recommend to include a range of samples to make the normal milk profile so that the above mentioned normal variations are recognized as normal milk.