The Sustainable Dairy Assurance Scheme (SDAS) has been developed for milk producers in conjunction with representatives of the dairy industry. Its objective is to demonstrate to customers of dairy products that milk is produced sustainably under an accredited scheme.
Many of our milk suppliers already participate in the Bord Bia Beef and Lamb Quality Assurance Scheme (BLQAS). It is recommended that suppliers due an audit for the BLQAS scheme apply for the SDAS scheme also. You can then be audited for both the SDAS and BLQAS at the same time, which will save a lot of time and effort. The requirements for both schemes are very similar, and if you are BLQAS quality assured, your cull cows will be worth considerably more when sent to the factory.
Preparation
Areas that farmers should focus their attention on in preparation for audit are:
- Farm records including herd register, animal movement records, animal remedy purchase and usage records and feed purchase records
- Display of a sign relating to access control, biosecurity and availability of farm safety statement / farm safety risk assessment
- Provision of disinfection point
- Complete and up to date farm safety statement / farm safety risk assessment
- Reports from the milk purchaser on milk quality
- A recent water test
Further Information
Information packs including application forms are available for collection from the Drinagh Central Office. If you need help preparing for an audit or have any questions in relation to the scheme please contact Tim Regan at 028-30800.