DDA registers 20 illegal centrifugation cases

By Our Reporter

6^th June 2023

The Diary Development Authority-DDA South Western Regional office has recorded over 20 cases of illegal centrifugation, which is commonly used to separate cream from milk.

These cases have been reported in Kiruhura, Isingiro, Kazo, and Ibanda districts.

Dr. Moses Ahimbisibwe, the Regional Manager, explains that this process involves the use of cream-removing machines called separators.

He explains that despite their ongoing efforts to combat milk adulteration, the practice of cream separation is increasing, and separated milk is being found on the market.

According to Dr. Ahimbisibwe, unregistered processors clandestinely engage in the process of cream removal to produce butter.

These processors also sell the remaining non-nutritious milk. At present, this activity is being conducted on a small scale due to fear of apprehension.

Over the past two years, the authorities have managed to apprehend 20 individuals involved in these illegal practices.

They have been prosecuted in court, with fines imposed on some and warnings issued to others.

Emmanuel Tayebwa, a dairy consultant at Mutanoga Dairy Training Center, emphasizes the sensitivity of milk as a perishable product that can be easily exploited.

He suggests that the Dairy Development Authority should engage directly with farmers to ensure proper management and carry out sensitization programs to curb such practices.

Separated butter is being sold at 40,000 shillings per kilogram which Tayebwa says the authority must investigate and where the separated milk is being sold.