Caring for our animals

Irish farmers operate to a very high standard of animal welfare in a natural low intensity farming system. Our cows graze outdoors on fresh grass for most of the year and our milk production season follows grass growth, which means that the majority of Irish milk is produced between March and November. During the worst of the winter months, Irish cows are kept indoors where they shelter in well ventilated, purpose-built sheds with space to move around.

The Department of Agriculture, Food & the Marine regulates animal welfare in Ireland, with a cross-compliance inspection system that all farmers must comply with.

HIGHER LIFE EXPECTANCY

Our grass-fed cows are healthier and have a higher life expectancy than grain-fed cows.

LESS INTENSIVE

Ireland’s farming system is less intensive than other systems around the world with milk yield per cow just 5,400 litres a year, compared to 7,500 litres in the UK and 10,400 litres in the USA.

HEALTHIER ANIMALS

Ornua supports animal health initiatives including the National Mastitis Control Programme and promotes the highest standards in milk quality through the NDC Kerrygold Milk Quality Awards.

TARGETS