Grassland milk

As the light mist of summer mornings slowly dissipates and a wave of intoxicating scents rises from the ground, the paddock becomes a hive of activity that continues throughout the day. Cows graze in the company of butterflies, insects and grassland birds as they wander through fragrant blooms of violets, orchids and vibrant wildflowers, at midday seeking refuge from the heat in a shadowy grove of trees. They do an important job for the meadow, clearing it of excess grass and spreading the seeds of valuable plants. In turn, the meadow provides everything the cattle need - a meal rich in dozens of different plants and a home surrounded by colourful flowers, fresh air, birdsong and blue skies.

This idyllic scene may be a rarity or a work of art, but what would we gain from more dairy cows, goats and even dairy sheep grazing in natural meadows? It is well known that animal feed intake affects the composition and quality of milk - the composition of the pasture influences the taste, colour, texture and nutritional value of the milk and its products. Grass improves the quality of dairy products - butter is easier to spread, cheese is more diverse in taste and texture, milk has a higher nutritional value. Milk from species-rich meadows is higher in essential fatty acids and antioxidants.