Dairy UK urges policymakers to adopt a balanced approach that values both the nutritional and environmental benefits of dairy. Its report, UK Dairy: More Nutrition with Fewer Emissions, highlights dairy’s key role in providing essential nutrients and the industry’s progress in reducing its environmental impact. The report stresses the need for informed policies that support sustainable diets, public health, and economic stability while achieving environmental goals.
Dairy UK, the leading trade association for the dairy sector in the United Kingdom, is calling for a balanced approach to nutrition and sustainability. The organization’s latest report, UK Dairy: More Nutrition with Fewer Emissions, urges policymakers to recognize the vital contributions of dairy to public health, food security, and rural economies, while also addressing environmental challenges.
The report underscores the essential role dairy plays in providing key nutrients such as calcium, protein, and vitamins. Dairy UK cautions against oversimplified recommendations to reduce dairy consumption, pointing out that such measures could undermine efforts to maintain a balanced and sustainable diet.
Dr. Judith Bryans, Chief Executive of Dairy UK, highlighted that the dairy sector has made significant strides in reducing its environmental footprint, including advancements in carbon reduction, energy and water efficiency, and waste management. These efforts are encapsulated in the Dairy Roadmap, a strategic framework that guides farmers and processors towards achieving Net Zero goals. The industry has committed to meeting ambitious sustainability targets, ensuring dairy’s place in future food systems without compromising on nutrition.
“Sustainability is a multifaceted issue, and our report stresses the importance of informed decision-making. A sustainable diet doesn’t solely focus on environmental impact but also takes into account the need for key nutrients and the socioeconomic benefits of dairy,”
Dr. Judith Bryans, Chief Executive of Dairy UK
Dr. Bryans during a reception at the House of Lords, where Dairy UK engaged with Parliamentarians to discuss its findings and call for action.
The report advocates for policies that recognize dairy as an integral part of the UK’s food system, ensuring that the drive for environmental sustainability does not come at the cost of nutritional or economic well-being. Dairy UK’s efforts aim to balance the dual priorities of enhancing public health while achieving environmental and economic stability, positioning the dairy sector as a key player in the UK’s sustainable future.
