The interim national program makes it possible for dairy processors to stop using imported diafiltered milk while remaining competitive and supporting members and Canadian milk producers.
Following the establishment of an interim national program to encourage the use of Canadian milk in cheese manufacturing, Agropur Cooperative, Canada, announced plans to immediately discontinue the use of imported diafiltered milk, becoming what is said to be the first major national processor to do so. The interim national program supports access to Canadian ingredients at competitive prices for a 3-month period.
"We are proud to be taking the lead in the industry by immediately halting all use of diafiltered milk," says Serge Riendeau, president. "While the interim national program is temporary, its creation is good news since it makes it possible for us to stop using imported diafiltered milk while remaining competitive and supporting our members and all Canadian milk producers. We had pledged to stop importing diafiltered milk as soon as conditions allowed. Today, as a result of this program, we are in a position to do so."