This document specifies a fluorimetric method for the determination of alkaline phosphatase (ALP) (EC 3.1.3.1) activity in raw and heat-treated whole milk, semi-skimmed milk, skimmed milk and flavoured milks.


This method is applicable to milk and milk-based drinks from cows, sheep and goats. It is also applicable to milk powder after reconstitution.


The instrument used for the determination of ALP can read activities up to 7 000 milliunits per litre (mU/l). If the activity is higher than 7 000 mU/l, it is diluted with ALP-free milk so as to obtain a measurement not higher than 7 000 mU/l.