A new payment system around thermoduric bacteria, to apply from 1 October 2026, has been put in place by Dale Farm.

In a letter to suppliers, the co-op noted that it has managed to divert more of its output into high value markets in recent years, especially whey-based products.

However, these markets also require higher quality standards, especially around milk hygiene.

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To encourage low thermoduric levels, where monthly averages are at or under 250cfu/ml, farmers will receive a 0.3p/l bonus, with milk between 251 and 500cfu/ml paid a 0.2p/l bonus.

The thermoduric base is set at 501 to 1,000, with those between 1,001 and 3,000 penalised 0.5p, rising to a 1.5p/l penalty for 3,001 to 5,000 and a 3p/l deduction for anyone above that.

Dale Farm are to hold producer meetings across NI next week on what actions farmers can take to identify, control and eliminate thermoduric bacteria.

Guest speaker is Lyle Hardman from Calibre Control in England.