The UK’s first-ever free milk ATM has been installed in North London, marking a significant step in addressing the lack of fresh dairy access for those relying on food charities. This initiative, spearheaded by Arla, the UK’s leading dairy cooperative, aims to raise awareness about the daily challenges food charities face in providing fresh milk and dairy products.
Arla’s free milk dispenser is the first of its kind in the UK and is part of a wider plan to roll out similar ATMs nationwide. This effort comes in response to reports from FareShare, the UK’s largest food redistribution charity, revealing that around 450,000 people who depend on food banks are missing out on fresh dairy products due to storage limitations.
Despite fresh dairy being one of the most in-demand items at food banks, approximately 19% of the charities supported by FareShare are unable to provide it. This new milk ATM is designed to tackle that issue, offering free fresh milk at the touch of a button.
The initiative also involves Arla partnering with FareShare to donate fully stocked fridges to food charities across the country. Jonathan Dixon, Arla’s senior vice president, said: “We are on a mission to enhance the accessibility of nutritious dairy products for communities across the UK. Too many charities have to turn away fresh dairy donations because they have nowhere to store it, but by working with FareShare, we hope to overcome that.”
Ben Ashmore, head of external affairs at FareShare, added: “Our charities report increasing demand for nutritious dairy products, but many lack the infrastructure to store refrigerated items safely. Thanks to Arla’s commitment to donating fridges, these organisations can now offer a more varied range of nutritious food.”
A recent study commissioned by Arla highlighted the importance of dairy in UK households, with 50% of participants saying they couldn’t imagine a day without milk. However, 62% were unaware that many food banks can’t store fresh dairy products due to a lack of refrigeration facilities.
Dietitian Nichola Ludlam-Raine praised the initiative, stating: “A 200ml glass of milk provides essential nutrients like protein, calcium, and iodine, which are vital for maintaining strong bones and reducing fatigue. Initiatives like this are crucial in ensuring that more people have access to these important food groups.”
As the initiative expands across the country, Arla and FareShare are committed to improving dairy access for those who need it most.
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