Seven Danish conventional milk producers and 10 organic milk producers have decided to withdraw from Arla Foods from October 1. The 17 producers supply a total of 14 million kg milk to Arla Foods.

Some of the withdrawals are due to objections relating to Arla Foods’ size while others have decided to turn to other dairies for a higher price.

”Losing co-operative members is, of course, always regrettable,” said Knud Erik Jensen, Chairman, Arla Foods. ”All our efforts are dedicated towards operating a forward-looking business which is capable of paying the highest possible milk price to its members. However, in view of our size, there will inevitably be some who prefer to supply their milk to other dairies.”

The former members intend to supply the following dairies: Mammen, Sædager, Tholstrup Cheese, Thiese, Grambogård and Naturmælk.

There were no withdrawals among Swedish members.