British supermarket Morrisons is allowing bull calves from its dairy suppliers participating in the Arla UK 360 programme into its beef supply chain in an industry-first.

Dairy farmers supported by Morrisons to participate in Arla UK 360, will also be able to sell bull and beef calves into the calf rearing units of Buitelaar Production – Morrisons beef rearing partners.

Belgian and British Blue crossed breeds may go on to form part of Morrisons beef supply chain.

“As we work with Arla farmers making the transition to the Arla UK 360 standards we see the extensive efforts they are making,” said Morrisons Agricultural Manager, Sophie Throup.

As we own our own abattoirs and end to end meat production, we saw an opportunity to connect the supply chains to support our dairy farmers even more.

“Having worked with Buitelaar since 2009 on developing the dairy beef market, we already have a good working relationship to build on through the extended programme for Morrisons Arla farmers.”

One of the Arla UK 360 standards requires that no healthy calf be shot or slaughtered before eight weeks of age so, the move will support farmers by guaranteeing a home for every calf.

Graham Wilkinson, Agriculture Director Arla Foods UK, said: “This move by Morrisons to open up its supply chain to further support our owners, represents everything the Arla UK 360 programme envisioned.

“Arla’s farmer owners see opportunities to evolve farming if we make a supply chain that works for everyone.

“This decision and the support through the supply chain with Buitelaar is the perfect example of how bigger change can be delivered in agriculture if we all work together.”