Dropped: Excess Maltese Milk Price Slashed To 0.001c As ‘Hard Decisions’ Taken By Processors
A recently leaked circular stipulating that Maltese farmers will get 0.001c for each litre of excess milk has been confirmed as true by Malta Dairy Products.
This comes after a circular by the KPH Group was leaked, advising Maltese farmers that “due to current situations difficult decisions are being taken”, announcing that excess milk will be sold at 0.001c per litre.
Lovin Malta reached out to Malta Dairy Products, to confirm the contents of the circular after farmers claimed the circular as real and factual.
“With reference to stories and comments published on various social channels and news portals earlier today following a leak of a circular addressed to members of the Cooperative, Malta Dairy Products would like to clarify the following,” it said in the statement.
“Malta Dairy Products has agreements in place which stipulate the exact quantities of milk it requires, which agreements are revised from time to time as deemed necessary.”
A shared image from concerned producers over the price drop
“The rates included in the circular referred to the value of raw milk over and above all contractual obligations of supplies which MDP purchases.”
“MDP’s objective is to sustain the local dairy sector whilst ensuring a constant supply of fresh milk and fresh milk products, which are genuine, nutritious and of good quality, into the local market.”
“It also strives to find alternative and sustainable ways, within its limitations, to make use of any milk in excess of the local demand.”
“Our fresh milk products cannot be compared to UHT or plant-based alternatives. These are designed to last longer but have fewer nutrients.”
It continued to explain how UHT milk is pasteurised at higher temperatures than fresh milk which impacts the flavour compounds present in the milk.
“MDP’s fresh milk products, proudly packed under the Benna brand, are made from 100% fresh pasteurised Maltese milk. We make sure that the products presented to the local market are safe and full of all the natural nutrients found in milk,” it assured.
Prospective MEP candidate Peter Agius also spoke out on the matter, saying that Malta needs to take steps to protect its farmers.
“Malta needs to keep on producing its food, cause that’s the only guarantee we have to keep on feeding our families in times of emergency and times of crisis. To be able to feed the population in times of crisis, we need to have an ongoing and healthy food production industry,” Agius told Lovin Malta.
What do you make of this decision?
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