The state will support the improvement of the quality of milk from the population, without resorting to restrictions in the implementation

At the same time, in 2018, government support programs are beginning to work to gradually improve the quality of dairy raw materials. Participation in state programs will allow to complete this process painlessly and in stages with maximum benefit for both producers and consumers. This was discussed on January 29 during the briefing "Purchase of Milk from Peasants: Myths, Fears and the Real Situation".

"No prohibitions on the purchase of milk. This is the principled position of the government. But considerable financial support will be directed to measures to gradually improve the quality of dairy raw materials. In addition to the social factor, a balanced policy in this matter is prompted by the economic one, since the milk processing industry is provided with a third of the population's milk, "comments the First Deputy Minister of Agrarian Policy and Food, Maksym Martyniuk.

At the same time, he stated that already now the absolute majority of Ukrainian milk is sold by peasant farms, meets the requirements and can be used for the production of food products.

The transition period with a gradual improvement in the quality of dairy raw materials can last more than 2 years.

Now hygienic requirements are being developed for milk and dairy products in production and processing, which will be introduced depending on the readiness of the market and producers. However, even after their implementation, the milk of the second grade will be allowed to be used in the production of non-food products.

"One of the effective ways to improve the quality of milk for small farms can be cooperation. Association in cooperatives will allow to receive significant state aid for the corresponding equipment. To this end, in 2018, the following programs are envisaged: livestock development, the development of farming and cooperation, and compensation of agricultural equipment, which includes equipment for the dairy industry, "said Deputy Minister of Agrarian Policy and Food Olena Kovalova.

The transition from the production of second-grade milk to the first does not require large financial costs. Each step to change the requirements for milk will be accompanied by an analysis of the market and its readiness for transformation.

"The ultimate goal is a gradual, namely, until 2022, bringing requirements to the so-called standard 100/400, which corresponds to the European provisions. As a result of this process, both producers and consumers will benefit. The first will be able to increase revenues through the sale of quality milk and access to the organized market, while others will consume healthy and useful products, " says Volodymyr Lapa, Chairman of the State Service of Ukraine for Food Safety and Consumer Protection.

Reference:

Over 9 months of 2017, processing enterprises received 3,392,700 tons of milk, which is 3.5% more than in the corresponding period of 2016.

Including:
- 2053.9 thousand tons of milk were purchased in agricultural enterprises (by 5.9% more than in the corresponding period of 2016);
- 1004.5 thousand tons (1.8% more) were purchased from households of the population.