A LIMERICK family has been nominated for what’s known as ‘Oscars of the Dairy World’.
The MacNamara family, from Gormanstown, Hospital, are one of the finalists in the National Dairy Council (NDC) and Kerrygold Quality Milk Awards.
Representing seven counties and 14 dairy co-ops nationwide, the NDC and Kerrygold Quality Milk Awards recognise and celebrate the highest standards of dairy production with a focus on milk quality, animal welfare, and sustainable farming practices.
The awards are now in their 12th year and honour farming families who produce top quality dairy products using sustainable practices.
The awards will be judged by Karina Pierce, Professor of Dairy Production in University College Dublin’s School of Agriculture and Food Science, Dr Patrick Wall, Professor of Public Health at University College Dublin, and Dr David Gleeson of Teagasc.
Donal Buggy, Interim Chief Executive at Ornua, said: “As Ireland’s largest dairy exporter and proud owner of Kerrygold, we at Ornua see first-hand how much Irish dairy is valued and appreciated by consumers worldwide.”
“Ireland’s global reputation as a leading producer of quality dairy products would not be achievable without the passion, commitment, and expertise of Irish farming families who produce the best quality milk in the world.”
Zoe Kavanagh, CEO of the National Dairy Council, added: “It’s more important than ever to highlight and celebrate the incredible hard work, commitment and energy that is demonstrated 24/7 by Ireland’s 17,500 dairy food producers.”
“The finalists for this competition demonstrate the highest standards of sustainable dairy production. Dairy farming has been going on in Ireland for over 4,000 years, it’s a part of our national identity. Our grass-fed family farming system is ideally suited to the Irish climate and delivers world class produce.”
“The farmers who have been shortlisted this year represent the highest standards as food producers delivering an exceptional product that is enjoyed at home and revered by consumers all over the world,” she concluded.
