DOC Kaas launches new premium milk stream for Jumbo

Over 200 members of the Dutch dairy cooperative DOC Kaas are now participating in the new premium milk stream launched by Uniekaas in collaboration with the supermarket group Jumbo.The initiative, announced last year, officially commenced today with the collection of the first liters of milk.

Following Cono, FrieslandCampina, and A-ware, DOC Cheese now also offers a premium milk stream in the conventional segment. The stream focuses on five themes: animal health and welfare, climate, land use and environment, and biodiversity.

More than two hundred dairy farmers from DOC Cheese are involved, receiving a premium of €5 per kilo on top of the regular milk price. Guus Mensink, Chairman of the Board of DOC Cheese, expressed his satisfaction, stating, "The long-term chain collaboration with Jumbo and Uniekaas Holland contributes to further sustainability and added value for the entire cheese chain, and we are proud of that." According to Mensink, a large portion of DOC members qualify for the additional milk income. DOC Cheese does not disclose the exact number of members, but reportedly, there are around seven hundred.

The launch of the milk stream took place today at the farm of dairy farmer Frans Zanderink, who is also participating in the milk stream. Starting from June 2024, the first own-brand cheese from the milk stream will be available in the fresh section at Jumbo.

Wouter Baan

Wouter Baan is the editor-in-chief of Farmerbusiness and a market specialist in dairy, pork, and meat at DCA Market Intelligence. He also tracks developments within the agribusiness sector and conducts interviews with CEOs and policymakers.

w.baan@farmerbusiness.com