What type of sample should be taken first from the bulk milk tank?

The first type of sample that should be taken from the bulk milk tank is a bacteria sample. Collecting a bacteria sample first is crucial because it serves to assess the microbial quality of the milk. This is particularly important for monitoring food safety and ensuring that the milk meets health standards before any further testing or processing occurs.

Taking the bacteria sample first helps prevent contamination that could affect subsequent tests and provides a baseline for the microbial load present in the milk. This proactive approach is vital, as high levels of bacteria can indicate poor handling or storage conditions that may compromise the milk's safety and shelf life.

While other types of samples, such as fat or quality samples, are also important for evaluating milk properties and compliance with regulatory standards, they are generally assessed after ensuring that the milk is safe from harmful bacterial contamination.