Footage reveals mistreatment of cows, prompting calls for action from supermarkets and authorities

Disturbing undercover footage from Lowfields Farm, located in Northallerton, North Yorkshire, has revealed severe abuse of cows at the facility, which supplies milk to the UK’s largest dairy producer, Arla. The footage shows farm workers slapping newborn calves, kicking cows, and twisting their tails, while injured animals are allegedly left untreated. In one case, dead calves and an adult cow were left in the open, and lame cows were violently forced into trucks, violating animal transport laws.

The farm, which is part of a cooperative group of Arla-affiliated farmers, is under scrutiny after the release of the footage by the Animal Justice Project. Although Arla is not directly responsible for the farm, it sets standards for its members to follow. The charity is now urging supermarkets to sever ties with Arla, which reported £1.2 billion in revenue for the first half of 2024.

Arla responded by stating that the staff involved in the abuse have not worked at the farm since the summer of 2024 and that an internal investigation is underway. However, Claire Palmer, director of the Animal Justice Project, highlighted that such mistreatment appeared to be a routine practice, raising concerns about Arla’s oversight and commitment to animal welfare.

In addition to this investigation, a legal complaint has been filed with trading standards. Animal welfare experts, including former UK government veterinary officials, have expressed deep concern, with some of the footage showing potential breaches of the Animal Welfare Act 2006.

Arla has suspended the farmer involved while the investigation continues, promising to work with independent auditors and external standards organisations to address the issue. Meanwhile, North Yorkshire Council is also conducting its own investigation into the alleged mistreatment at Lowfields Farm, vowing to take action if necessary.