Farmstead dairy producers worry about new hygiene code costs

Small producers of farmstead dairy products fear high costs under the new hygiene code. They say additional inspections, laboratory testing and paperwork could put some businesses under strain. Caring Farmers has sent an urgent letter on behalf of a group of producers to the Dutch ministers responsible for agriculture (LVVN) and health (VWS). The signatories are asking for rules that fit the scale of their businesses and how they operate.

More inspections and testing

The new Hygiene Code for On-Farm Dairy Production prompted the letter. According to the producers, the requirements do not adequately reflect the way small, artisanal businesses operate. They are especially concerned about the cost of additional inspections and laboratory testing. They say the extra administrative work will also be too costly. If testing and inspections become too expensive, some businesses may have to close.

The producers stress that food safety is essential to them. They want the rules to be based on actual risks. The rules should account for business size, production methods and evidence of food safety.

Talks with the ministers

Caring Farmers is calling on the ministers to meet with the dairy producers soon. It also wants LVVN to discuss the issue with VWS. Caring Farmers says the code conflicts with LVVN's agricultural policy. The minister has said they want to support leaders in sustainable farming.

If businesses close, the signatories say distinctive cheeses made on farms could disappear. They also fear a loss of craftsmanship and regional food culture. This is the third urgent letter Caring Farmers has sent recently. An earlier letter addressed the hygiene code for small egg packing facilities. In another letter, it drew attention to dairy farmers using extensive production methods.

Caringfarmers.nl