Arla launches probe into dairy welfare allegations

Arla has launched an urgent investigation after undercover footage alleged widespread animal welfare breaches on farms supplying the dairy cooperative.

The findings, carried out by campaign group Animal Justice Project between October 2025 and September 2026, covered 15 dairy farms supplying Arla across 13 English counties.

Independent animal welfare expert Jenny Mace reviewed footage from 10 of the farms and identified 360 potential breaches of animal welfare legislation and/or Arla and Red Tractor standards.

See also: What worked on dairy units to combat this year’s heatwaves?

These included 50 alleged cases of serious lameness across six farms, as well as allegations of cows being kicked while down, dragged across concrete and lifted using hip hoists.

The footage also recorded 26 incidents of calves being dragged, pushed or shoved, alongside distress following cow-calf separation.

Animal Justice Project said two of the farms investigated were operated by the farming business of Arla board director George Holmes. Other farms were linked to senior Arla figures and industry award winners.

Tesco and Morrisons suppliers

The group also said some farms were understood to supply milk destined for major retailers Tesco and Morrisons through Arla.

The findings have not been determined as breaches by a court, regulator or assurance body. However, Trading Standards has been contacted in all areas where the farms are located.

Animal Justice Project founder Claire Palmer said the investigation raised questions about the effectiveness of welfare monitoring across the dairy sector.

“This investigation is not about one farm or one worker losing their temper,” she said.

“Across 13 counties and 16 Arla farms, we documented the same problems again and again.”

Ms Mace said the repeated nature of the alleged incidents suggested weaknesses in how welfare standards are monitored and enforced.

Hidden cameras

The campaign group said its investigation covered 15 farms, with cameras installed at 10 and visits made to eight farms during Open Farm Sunday. Two farms featured in both parts of the investigation.

An Arla spokesperson said an investigation is now under way.

“Animal welfare is of the utmost importance to us, and we take all reports and concerns seriously. We have therefore launched an urgent investigation,” the spokesperson confirmed.

Animal Justice Project is calling on Tesco and Morrisons to immediately suspend five farms linked to their supply chains, rather than leave Arla to investigate itself.

The British Cattle Veterinary Association said the allegations “must be investigated promptly” and that any animals suffering “must receive immediate care”.