In the quest for healthier and more sustainable living, organic milk has become a cornerstone for those prioritising natural, minimally processed foods. The Organic Oasis Mag Awards (OOM Awards) 2024 highlights the crème de la crème of organic milk producers in the UK, emphasising their commitment to quality, tradition, and environmental stewardship. Here, we unveil the shortlist of the best organic milk in the UK, celebrating their dedication to producing milk that’s not only delicious but also ethically and sustainably sourced.
Gazegill Organics: A Heritage of Biodiversity
Gazegill Organics is not just a farm; it’s a living museum of agricultural biodiversity. Their organic raw milk, priced at £3.49 per litre, is a testament to their commitment to traditional farming practices and environmental conservation. The milk comes from cows grazing on pastures rich in over 60 species of grasses, plants, herbs, and wildflowers, ensuring a complex and nutritious diet. This diversity is not only good for the cows but also enhances the nutritional profile and taste of the milk. Gazegill’s use of traditional breeds, such as Shorthorn cows, underscores their approach to low-intensity, sustainable farming. Certified by OF&G, Gazegill guarantees their milk is free from chemicals, pesticides, or GMOs, embodying the essence of what organic milk should be. For more information, visit their website at www.gazegillorganics.co.uk/organic-raw-milk.
Berkeley Farm Dairy: Tradition in Every Sip
Berkeley Farm Dairy offers a nostalgic return to the days when milk tasted like milk. Their Whole Guernsey Milk, available for £1.90 per litre, harks back to a time when milk processing prioritised taste over convenience. By eschewing homogenization, Berkeley Farm Dairy preserves the natural “cream line” of the milk, a rare find in today’s market, and a hallmark of their commitment to traditional methods. The milk, sourced from Guernsey cows known for their high butterfat content and rich, creamy texture, promises a luxurious experience with every glass. Moreover, their focus on producing A2 milk caters to those with dairy sensitivities, making it a thoughtful choice for health-conscious consumers. Learn more about their commitment to quality at www.berkeleyfarmdairy.co.uk.
McQueens Dairies: Reviving the Doorstep Tradition
McQueens Dairies, established by Mick and Meg in 1995, has reinvigorated the classic British doorstep milk delivery service, offering their organic whole milk at £1.99 per litre, including free doorstep delivery. What started as a single milk round in St Andrews has blossomed into a nationwide service, bringing fresh, organic milk directly to thousands of households. McQueens Dairies not only provides convenience but also a link to a cherished tradition, all while ensuring the highest standards of organic farming practices. Their commitment to accessibility, quality, and sustainability makes them a standout in the organic milk market. For more details on their services, visit www.mcqueensdairies.co.uk.
Cotteswold Dairy: Pioneering Organic Milk in Glass Bottles
Cotteswold Dairy stands out in the organic milk market, not just for the quality of their milk but also for their pioneering environmental practices. As one of the first dairies to offer organic milk in the UK, Cotteswold Dairy has always been a step ahead, especially with their introduction of returnable, reusable glass pint bottles—a first in the industry. Priced at £1.04 for a pint (568ml), their organic whole milk is certified by both the Organic Farmers and Growers (OF&G) and Red Tractor, ensuring adherence to the highest standards of organic farming. This naturally creamy whole milk is not just a treat for the taste buds but also a rich source of calcium. The commitment to delivering milk in traditional foil top glass bottles is a testament to Cotteswold Dairy’s dedication to reducing plastic waste and carbon footprint, making it a sustainable choice for environmentally conscious consumers. For more details, visit their website at www.cotteswold-dairy.co.uk.
Daylesford: Luxuriously Creamy Organic Milk
Daylesford offers an exceptional organic non-homogenised whole milk that truly stands apart in the dairy aisle. Priced at £1.99 for 1 litre, this milk is the epitome of luxury in everyday life. Sourced from a herd of pedigree British Friesians grazing on clover-rich pastures, the milk’s unparalleled creaminess and refreshing taste are a direct result of the superior diet these cows enjoy. By choosing not to homogenise their milk, Daylesford ensures that the natural structure of the milk is preserved, allowing the cream to rise to the top. This method not only enhances the milk’s flavour but also retains its natural goodness, making it a favourite among those who appreciate milk in its most authentic form. To experience this creamy delight, visit Daylesford’s website at www.daylesford.com.
These five companies represent the pinnacle of organic milk production in the UK, each with its unique approach to dairy farming and milk processing. By supporting these producers, consumers not only enjoy superior quality milk but also contribute to sustainable agricultural practices and the revival of traditional farming methods. Stay tuned for more announcements from the OOM Awards 2024, as we continue to celebrate the best in organic food production.