Abstract
Background:
Somatic cells are milk secreting epithelial cells shed from the gland lining and white blood cells that enter the mammary gland in response to injury or infection.

Aim:
The main objective of the present study was to evaluate the quality of bulk raw cow milk by the somatic cell count (SCC) to identify mastitis in four areas of the Beni Mellal-Khenifra region. In addition, the determination of the relationship between the SCC and mastitis caused by Staphylococcus aureus was assessed, as well as the presence of antibiotic residues.

Methods:
SCC was measured using the DeLaval cell counter, S. aureus enumeration was performed using Baird Parker agar medium, and antibiotic residues were tested using the Delvotest method.

Results:
A SCC average of 328.1, 329.2, 325.4 and 311.3 x103 cells/ml was detected in areas 1-Fkih Ben Salah, 2-Khouribga, 3-Souk Sebt and 4-Oued Zem, respectively. A S. aureus average of 39.0, 591.0, 372.0 and 854.0 CFU/ml was found in the same areas, respectively. No antibiotic residues were detected in any of the samples analyzed.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, the SCC, S. aureus counts, and antibiotic residue results obtained in the studied areas suggest, on the one hand, good herd health status and, on the other hand, the quality and safety of the milk for consumption in these areas. Finally, this represents a new approach to predicting and preventing damage to the mammary glands of dairy cows.

Key words: Antibiotics; Mastitis disease; Morocco; Somatic cell count (SCC); Staphylococcus aureus.