Warning dairy hygiene products face scrutiny

Milk producers have been warned that farm hygiene chemicals are likely to come under the same scrutiny as glyphosate and neonicotinoids in future.

According to Rob Kelly, regional sales director for hygiene product company Diversey, dairy farmers will need to look at the suitability of the chemicals they use when they consider their specific end markets.

“In the future we’re not going to see the bulk of liquid milk going into one big, single reservoir,” he said.

“Export opportunities will come, but at a price, and with caveats.

“We’re aware of the challenges producers will face and we’re already working to help them make the most of high-margin opportunities.”

Mr Kelly urged farmers to look carefully at the chemicals they are using, and to make sure they are not at risk of being banned in the future.

“When you’re producing milk for infant formula powder, you should ensure that the dairy hygiene products you use meet with the demands of the contract,” he said.

“These demands are often more stringent than the requirements for the low-margin, low-cost skim market, for example.

“Producers need to be prepared to make sure they’re compliant with the latest regulations from the industry and from their buyers.”

Mr Kelly predicted food safety would increase in importance in future.

“As an industry, we must work together to protect the wholesomeness of milk, and farmers need to start thinking about the complete milk market,” he said.

Food safety will increase in importance after Brexit, he added.

Dairy farmers will have to assess if the chemicals they use are suitable.