Arla introduces set of higher sustainability standards for branded milk

Arla has unveiled a new programme designed to bring higher animal welfare and sustainability standards to its branded milk.

Arla CARE, which stands for Cooperative, Animal Welfare, Renewable Energy and Ecosystem, will be a requirement for all of its farmer owners producing milk for the Cravendale, BOB and Big Milk brands. The programme will see a new on-pack logo introduced across these ranges. 

Producers will have to meet the standards that constitute Arla UK 360 – a programme introduced in 2018 that is designed to drive sustainable business in the farming sector – as well as an additional requirement regarding grazing.

Arla UK 360 is comprised of 12 standards, covering areas including biodiversity, restoring natural ecosystems and reducing energy usage on farms.

Paul Savage, director of agriculture at Arla UK, said: “By introducing some of our highest welfare standards onto our branded milk ranges, we can provide shoppers with the knowledge that…[they have] been produced with welfare and nature at the heart”.

The CARE programme is the most recent development in Arla’s efforts towards reaching its climate targets, which include being carbon net zero by 2050. 

Arla Foods also recently announced the introduction of a €500 million sustainability incentive scheme that will pay its farmers more for their milk if they reduce emissions on their farms.