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Pasture milk in the test: This is how much happiness there really is for cows!
Discover the truth behind pasture milk and organic milk in North Rhine-Westphalia: consumer tips on animal husbandry and labeling.
Pasture milk in the test: This is how much happiness there really is for cows!
Confused consumers often stand on supermarket shelves wondering what the names on milk packaging actually mean. The term “pasture milk” in particular evokes associations with happy cows in lush meadows. But what does it look like in reality? These terms are not legally protected and the truths could not be further apart. Mercury clarifies that no law dictates how long cows can graze in order to bear this name.
The Nuremberg Higher Regional Court decided in 2017 that for the designation “pasture milk”, cows were allowed to go outdoors for at least six hours a day on at least 120 days a year. But in the worst case scenario, cows could remain locked up for 245 days a year, although the exact conditions under which they are kept are often unclear. This raises the question: How can consumers ensure that the milk they buy actually comes from happy cows?
Reliable labels as guidance
In order not to get lost in the jungle of milk labels, consumer advocates advise choosing better protected labels. The “Pro Weideland” label requires, among other things, at least 2,000 square meters of pasture land per animal, GMO-free feed and that the cows are allowed to roam freely all year round. There is also the label “For more animal protection”, which requires a minimum grazing time of six hours per day from April to October, including proof of sufficient space. Such seals could be a real help for consumers who value sustainable and animal-friendly products.
Another detail that is often overlooked: organic milk is not automatically grass-fed milk. According to EU regulations, it is sufficient that cows have access to an open area that does not necessarily have to be designated as pastureland. In the future, however, from 2026, a new EU regulation will come into force that will provide for stricter regulations. Cows must then have access to pasture from April to November, depending on the weather. This could create challenges for many farmers whose stables were not previously aligned.
The reality of milk production
According to the Consumer advice center Around 87 percent of German dairy cows live in free stalls where there is sufficient freedom of movement. However, around 30 percent of these cows only enjoy grazing for an estimated period of six months. It is important to be aware that although many packaging in supermarkets state different criteria, the actual storage conditions are often unclear and can raise many questions.
So every consumer has the opportunity to make informed decisions. It is worth looking for trustworthy seals to ensure that the milk reflects appropriate animal husbandry. The new regulations in particular could have both positive and negative effects on domestic companies. The production landscape is constantly changing and progress is being made towards greater animal welfare.
Overall, it is important to keep a close eye on developments in the area of milk production in the future and to regularly find out about the latest information. Anyone who has a good knack for quality will ultimately be able to make the best decisions for themselves and the animals.