Chobani unveils programme to address dairy industry challenges

Yoghurt maker Chobani has unveiled a comprehensive programme to support the future of the dairy industry.

The programme, dubbed Milk Matters, supports the company’s continued commitment to the economic, environmental and social impacts of dairy farms using a holistic approach.

It seeks more transparency to provide support and preserve the long-term viability of the dairy industry.

Milk Matters will include co-op partners, dairy farms and third-parties like Fair Trade USA, the World Wildlife Fund, National Milk Producers Federation, Cornell University, state programmes and community foundations in Idaho and New York to validate the continued progress.

The programme, which is working towards 100% implementation by 2025, will focus on six areas such as worker well-being, environmental stewardship, animal care, local sourcing, investing in dairy communities, and freedom and flexibility for dairy farmers.

Chobani founder and CEO Hamdi Ulukaya said: “Dairy farms are the backbone of the communities we call home, but the current model is broken and it’s leaving consumers questioning everything, including the treatment of animals, farm workers and the land itself. Our solution is simple but powerful. We all have a responsibility to support the farmers who make our business and our vision possible.”

Chobani is collaborating with Fair Trade USA to explore the development of the first-ever standard and certification programme for the dairy industry.

Fair Trade USA CEO Paul Rice said: “By funding the exploration and development of a standard that will be available to the entire dairy industry, Chobani is taking a real leadership position. We’re thrilled to support an initiative that will drive continued progress, value, and transparency across the dairy industry.”

Chobani produces yoghurt with only natural, non-GMO ingredients from its facilities in New Berlin, New York, Twin Falls, Idaho and South Victoria, Australia. The company says it is committed to use milk from regional farms and strengthen its surrounding local economies.