Milk matters at M&S. We’re proud to be the only retailer to sell 100% RSPCA Assured fresh milk, and we’re reducing our carbon footprint by using a new feed supplement to lower methane emissions from M&S Select Farms dairy cows. Plus this year we’re celebrating 25 years of the M&S Milk Pledge – our commitment to always paying farmers a fair price.
David Irwin from Dervock, in County Antrim, Northern Ireland is one of our dedicated M&S Select dairy farmers. His healthy, contented cows are fed on a 100% soya-free and grass-based diet supplemented with nutritious cereals and pulses.
David is passionate about animal welfare and continues to invest in cow comfort, including buying toys for the cows and young stock to play with. The location of the farm also allows him to grow lush grass all year round, ensuring the cows can graze at every possible opportunity.
The farm includes 45 acres of natural habitats where lapwings have been spotted, there's four acres of mature trees and David completed 10 years of hedge and tree planting under the Countryside Management Scheme.
This year we celebrate our 25-year anniversary of the M&S Milk Pledge, which means we’ve been committed to paying farmers fairly since 1999 - always paying a price which covers an additional margin above production costs. This ensures farmers have the confidence to invest in their farms so they can achieve the highest standards of food safety and welfare for their cows and staff – something M&S takes incredibly seriously. Since its launch, the M&S Milk Pledge has been integral to protecting our farmers and providing them with a secure future.
M&S milk can of course be used in many more ways than just your daily (hourly?) cuppa and morning porridge. Top chef Tom Kerridge loved coming up with these two incredibly tasty dessert recipes, making the most of our magical milk.