Question:

Surface ropiness in milk is caused by:

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Surface ropiness is often a result of contaminated cooling water or poorly sanitized equipment on the dairy farm. It is usually inhibited by acid production.
Updated On: Jul 4, 2026
  • Escherichia coli
  • Klebsiella oxytoca
  • Streptococcus lactis
  • Alcaligenes viscolactis
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The Correct Option is D

Solution and Explanation

Concept: Ropiness is a common defect in milk characterized by an increase in viscosity and the formation of slimy threads.

• It is caused by the synthesis of extracellular polysaccharides (gums).

• These gums are produced by specific bacteria as capsules or slime layers.

Step 1: Identifying the specific causative agent.
Alcaligenes viscolactis is the most common cause of surface ropiness. It is an aerobic bacterium, which explains why the ropiness appears at the surface.

Step 2: Understanding the mechanism.
The bacteria utilize the nutrients in milk to produce a viscous capsular material. When a spoon is lifted from the milk, long "ropes" or threads of slime are pulled up.

Step 3: Comparing other organisms.
Streptococcus lactis is primarily involved in the normal souring of milk. E. coli can cause "stormy fermentation" but not typically surface ropiness. Final Answer: (D)
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