Guernsey Dairy seeks RSPCA's seal of approval

Friday 23 October 2020

Guernsey milk could carry the RSPCA's animal welfare label by next year.

The 'Farm Assured' scheme is the charity's ethical food label and aims to cover every aspect of animal welfare.

While three of the island's dairy farms have already completed the accreditation process, ten are still working towards achieving it by next year.

If all 13 of the farms get the accreditation, the Dairy will be able to display the logo on all of its products.

“Islanders have always appreciated the great taste of Guernsey milk, which is something we are rightly proud of," said General Manager of the Dairy, Andrew Tabel. "However consumers nowadays are more knowledgeable and conscious of other factors, such as the environment, health, knowing where the products come from and that they are ethically produced.

Pictured: If all of Guernsey's dairy farms secure RSPCA accreditation, the Dairy will be able to display the charity's logo on all of its products.

“RSPCA Farm Assured provides that independent guarantee, and will help promote the island as a centre of farming excellence. As well as being certain of a great taste, anyone buying Guernsey Dairy products will know the cows that produce our milk are cared for within the context of high animal welfare standards. And, as it is 100% locally-produced, the journey from ‘grass to glass’ is minimal, which is also great for the environment.”

The target of achieving accreditation by mid-2021 has been included in Guernsey Dairy's recently published business plan.

It sets out a number of priorities for the Dairy; to improve efficiency, mitigate the decline in milk sales and support a viable and sustainable local farming industry.

“Although these are challenging times, they are also very exciting times as we plan for the long term future of the dairy farming industry in Guernsey," Mr Tabel added. "Our primary aim is to ensure the Dairy continues to act as an economic enabler to dairy farmers, preserve the Guernsey countryside, its traditional farming heritage and protect the iconic Guernsey cattle breed.”