Milk. For many of us, it’s something we enjoy every day and take for granted. But did you know that not all milk is created equal? Enter a team of experts at Newcastle University in the UK who, in collaboration with The Research Institute of Organic Agriculture (FiBL), were determined to uncover the real differences between organic and non-organic milk. The largest systematic review of its kind (1), the findings were unequivocal – opting for organic milk offers tangible benefits for both your health and the environment.
WHAT IS ORGANIC?
It’s a word we see everywhere these days, but what does it mean and how can we be sure the products we buy are truly organic?
The study underscores the importance of clear labelling and robust regulatory frameworks such as the European Union’s organic standard, with rules and principles covering production, livestock, animal welfare and permitted substances.
Together these ensure that the use of synthetic pesticides, antibiotics, GMOs and hormones is forbidden in the production of all EU organic milk, while prioritising sustainable practices (2).
The result? EU organic milk is rich in essential nutrients, vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats, it contains more omega3 fatty acids for example.
So by choosing organic milk you can ensure that you and your family receive the maximum health benefits from each glass.
Put simply, it’s a choice that says yes to prioritising health, sustainability, and ethical farming practices.
Now, let’s take a closer look at some of these nutritional benefits.
50% MORE OMEGA-3 FATTY ACIDS
Organic milk is a nutritional powerhouse, boasting a significant 50% increase in omega-3 fatty acids. These essential elements are recognised for their positive impact on heart health, cognitive function and overall well-being.
Organic milk also contains an impressive 40% more conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), which is linked to potential health benefits, such as reduced body fat, enhanced immune function, and even anti-cancer properties (3).
Incorporating organic milk into your diet doesn't just enable you to harness the power of CLA to support your health goals, it’s a deliberate choice to avoid exposure to harmful chemicals, thereby mitigating potential health risks associated with their consumption for you and your loved ones.
HOLISTIC FARMING PRACTICES
Healthier cows mean healthier milk. Behind every sip of organic milk lies a humane origin story.
Organic EU milk comes from cows raised with compassion. Adhering to strict animal welfare standards, these cows graze on organic pastures and consume natural, pesticide-free feed.
Seitzhof, Baierbrunn; Credit: photo: Naturland / Sabine Bielmeier
By putting sustainability first, the long-term result is EU organic milk, enriched with essential nutrients, vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats, offering consumers a truly wholesome dairy option.
ANIMAL WELFARE AT THE FOREFRONT OF FARMING
Around two-thirds of cows in Germany are kept indoors and may not have regular access to outdoor pastures (4). However, farmers from Germany-based Naturland, the world’s largest international association for organic agriculture, take an approach that is wholeheartedly focused on the harmonious relationship between healthy soil and happy cows.
For a more nuanced understanding of the nutritional advantages offered by EU organic milk, a closer examination of key factors compared to conventional alternatives is warranted.
Read on for our quick guide to the top three unique factors that go into the production of EU organic milk products available on shelves near you.
QUICK GUIDE: WHAT MAKES ORGANIC DAIRY PRODUCTION DIFFERENT?
Credit: Naturland
Factor 1: Food
It’s common for cattle to subsist on silage throughout the year, while those on organic farms will eat on the pasture or enjoy fresh grass in the barn for a minimum of 6 months during the summer and enjoy a diverse diet comprising grass, clover, and whole crop silage that contributes to the higher nutritional quality of organic milk.
Factor 2: Environment
Organic cattle benefit from open-air access and pasture, adhering to regulations specifying minimum space requirements. This enables them to express natural social behaviour, leading to healthier and less stressful lives compared to their conventionally raised counterparts.
Factor 3: Breed
Such is the demand for milk that cattle are often bred for a high short-term yield. Organic farmers prioritise the longevity and productivity of dairy cows over yields, producing 5-6,000 litres per year. Robust historical breeds, coupled with a diet rich in grass and clover, contribute to a healthy and sustainable approach, promoting longevity, natural health and overall well-being. In summary, organic cows live long, natural and healthy lives with reduced stress. Organic milk isn’t just rich in nutrients, it signifies a choice aligned with sustainability and animal well-being.
BECOME PART OF A POSITIVE CHANGE
By opting for an EU organic milk such as that from Naturland, you are not only getting the finest quality dairy product, but also supporting sustainable and ecofriendly practices that benefit the cows, the environment, and the farmers themselves.
Naturland’s motto ‘eco for us’ becomes a reality, demonstrating the real significance of organic farming and the positive impact it has on our world. But don’t just take our word for it. It’s time to taste difference and enjoy the nutritious benefits of EU organic milk and become a part of a positive change in our food system.