Dairy UK has launched a package of new measures for the dairy industry as part of its ongoing commitment to the prudent use of antibiotics.
The aim is to deliver "safe and wholesome" dairy products to consumers across the UK, according to the trade association.
The package features three projects, including the brand new ‘MilkSure’ training programme for dairy farmers.
Developed in conjunction with the British Cattle Veterinary Association (BCVA), MilkSure is a comprehensive programme covering all technical and practical factors relevant to the use of antibiotics on dairy farms which aims to safeguard residue free milk.
To ensure maximum impact, vets will take the lead in working through the training programme with farmers.
The second major component of the package is a revamped teat sealant training programme, initially undertaken in 2012.
Participating milk purchasers will invite their supplying farmers to receive refresher training from their vet on the correct infusion and removal of teat sealant.
The programme will help to protect product quality and reinforce the industry’s evolution towards selective dry cow therapy.
'Take industry standards even further'
Unveiling the initiative, Dr Judith Bryans, Chief Executive of Dairy UK, said: "The UK dairy industry has always operated to the highest standards of animal health and food safety, advocating a responsible and prudent use of antibiotics.
"However, we cannot be complacent and, as antimicrobial resistance becomes a growing concern, we want to take industry standards even further and raise the bar for good practice on farm.
"In conjunction with our industry partners, we have put together a package of measures to improve the approach to the use of antibiotics on farm and reduce potential residues in raw milk.
"This will give consumers and customers even greater confidence that British milk is a pure and wholesome food.
"We strongly believe that a more informed use of antibiotics will lead to a reduced use. These new measures are designed to get vets, farmers and milk purchasers working together for optimal results.
"Only by drawing upon all elements of the supply chain can we move forward and I would urge all parties to take advantage of these initiatives," Dr Byrans concluded.
The development of the MilkSure training programme was sponsored by Arla Foods UK, Muller Milk and Ingredients, Dairy Crest, AHDB Dairy, Zoetis UK and MSD Animal Health. NML and RUMA contributed technical input.
The Teat Sealant Training programme has the support of Red Tractor, the BCVA, the four companies marketing teat sealant in the UK (Zoetis, MSD Animal Health, Bimeda and Norbrook) and a number of milk purchasers.
