What type of condition must the dipper be in when sampling milk from a farm tank?

When sampling milk from a farm tank, it is essential that the dipper is clean and free of fat to ensure the quality and integrity of the sample. Cleanliness is crucial because any contaminants, such as residual milk fat or bacteria, can affect the accuracy of the test results and the overall safety of the milk. A dipper that is not clean may introduce foreign substances that can skew the sampling results, potentially leading to incorrect assessments of the milk's quality. Furthermore, proper sanitation practices are vital in dairy operations to maintain food safety and prevent spoilage.

While factors such as the dipper being made of plastic, being used solely for that type of milk, or containing a sterile solution may contribute to the best practices in sampling, they are not primary conditions as critical as ensuring that the dipper is free from contaminants. Ultimately, maintaining a clean dipper directly impacts the safety and reliability of the milk sampling process.