In professional dairy collection centers and modern dairy farms, milk is bought and sold based on quality parameters: FAT percentage and SNF (Solid-Not-Fat) content.
1. What is CLR and SNF?
CLR stands for Corrected Lactometer Reading, which measures milk density at a standard temperature (usually 20°C / 68°F). SNF represents all non-fat solids in milk, including protein, lactose, and minerals.
2. Standard Indian Dairy SNF Formula (Richmond's Formula)
Richmond's SNF Equation:
SNF % = (CLR / 4) + (0.21 × FAT %) + 0.36*Note: Specific state cooperatives (Amul, Nandini, Verka, Mother Dairy) may apply slight offset coefficients depending on cow vs. buffalo milk baselines.
3. How Rate Charts Work
A typical Rate Chart matrix uses FAT on the vertical axis and SNF on the horizontal axis. For instance, buffalo milk with 6.5% FAT and 9.0% SNF will command a higher rate per litre than cow milk with 3.8% FAT and 8.5% SNF.