German dairy struggles with Vlog requirements

Chairman Franz-Josef Holzenkamp of the Deutsche Raiffaisen Verband (DRV) sees many German dairy companies struggling with this problem, he says. That is why he again calls for a relaxation of the requirements, which it means Verband Lebensmittel ohn Gentechnik (Vlog) refuses.

Vlog break DMK
The DRV therefore wants, following the example of the cooperative Bayern MEG, that packaging be adapted so that consumers are not fooled. The North German DMK gives members the opportunity to take a Vlog break. This can take effect on the first of the month and must be announced in good time. Then the pick-up route can also be adjusted on time. Vlog and non-Vlog milk must be collected and processed in separate flows. How DMK still wants to meet all contractual obligations for the supply of Vlog-certified product, it does not say. DMK claims to have the largest pool of Vlog-recertified milk in all of Germany.

Resistance of Vlog connection
The Vlog continues to oppose relaxation of requirements or changes to packaging. The covenant agrees with the critical agricultural organization AbL, which states that there is enough GM-free rapeseed available, even in Germany, provided a decent price is paid. The organisation danube soy, who represents growers in South-East Europe, says that there is also enough suitable European soy, provided it is paid for. 

Surcharges often not increased
This may be a problem, because many dairies have not yet adjusted the Vlog compensation for dairy farmers, despite the more expensive cattle feed. In Germany, almost only Arla has implemented a higher surcharge at the large processors. In the Netherlands, no signals have yet emerged that dairies have a shortage of Vlog-certified milk.

Remarkably enough, the German supermarkets have barely touched the entire Vlog debate.