Vladislav Mihailov, Chair of NADPO, stated that over 90% of Bulgarian dairy producers meet quality standards, ensuring high-quality products. Despite this, some violations have been reported by the Bulgarian Food Safety Agency (BFSA). To promote transparency, NADPO has conducted independent quality checks since 2014. However, many consumers struggle to afford quality dairy. NADPO calls for stricter penalties for non-compliant producers and support for local farmers facing competition from imports.
According to Vladislav Mihailov, Chair of the Managing Board of the National Association of Dairy Processing Operators (NADPO), more than 90% of Bulgarian dairy producers comply with industry standards and consistently deliver high-quality products. This statement was made during a joint press conference with the Association for Accessible and Quality Food at the BTA National Press Club. Despite the majority of the over 200 registered dairy producers adhering to quality regulations, a minority have been found in violation.
Kamen Nikolov from the Bulgarian Food Safety Agency (BFSA) reported that since the beginning of 2024, 17 out of 80 tested dairy product samples showed some deviations, with only one sample containing non-dairy fats.
NADPO has been conducting independent quality checks since 2014, utilizing a different accredited laboratory than the BFSA to enhance transparency and accountability in the industry. This initiative underscores the commitment to maintaining high standards in dairy production.
However, challenges remain for Bulgarian consumers, many of whom are among the poorest in the EU and struggle to afford higher-quality dairy products. Mihailov pointed out that consumers often prioritize quality over quantity when their budgets allow.
Legislative Changes and Industry Support
To address ongoing industry challenges, NADPO is advocating for legislative changes to impose stricter penalties on non-compliant producers. They propose a tiered system of sanctions that starts with fines for first-time violations and escalates to license revocation for repeat offenders.
Additionally, the association is urging for compensation mechanisms similar to those offered to farmers, as local producers are facing competition from imported raw materials from Ukraine and low-cost dairy products from Poland. Mihailov emphasized that these imports, exacerbated by the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, have negatively impacted the livelihoods of Bulgarian dairy producers, prompting the need for supportive measures.
As the dairy sector navigates these challenges, the push for quality assurance and compliance remains critical for both consumer protection and the sustainability of local dairy farming in Bulgaria.
