A free milk ATM has been set up for the first time in the UK, ahead of a national roll-out to highlight the importance of providing access to fresh dairy for those who rely on food banks. This initiative comes as it was revealed that an estimated 450,000 people who depend on food charities do not have access to fresh dairy products. Despite being one of the most requested items at food banks, around 19% of the charities supported by FareShare are unable to offer fresh dairy due to storage limitations, leading to declined donations.
The innovative milk dispensing machine aims to raise awareness of this issue and allow consumers to receive free, fresh milk with the push of a button. Launched by Arla, the leading dairy cooperative in the UK, this initiative is part of their commitment to improving access to daily dairy products. As part of the nationwide rollout, Arla will also be partnering with FareShare to donate fully-stocked refrigerators to charities across the country.
Jonathan Dixon, Senior Vice President at Arla, expressed their mission to enhance access to nutritious dairy products for communities across the UK. Ben Ashmore, Head of External Affairs at FareShare, highlighted the increasing demand for dairy products at charities and the challenges they face in storing refrigerated items safely. Thanks to Arla’s donation of fridges, many charities will now be able to offer a wider range of nutritious food to those in need.
A study commissioned by Arla found that half of adults in the UK couldn’t imagine not having daily access to milk, with 76% consuming it at least a few times a week. The research also revealed that many people were unaware that not all food banks have refrigeration facilities for storing fresh dairy products. Nichola Ludlam-Raine, a Specialist Dietitian, emphasised the nutritional benefits of dairy products, such as providing protein, calcium, and iodine.
This initiative by Arla and FareShare aims to address the lack of fresh dairy provision at food banks and ensure that everyone has access to essential dairy-based foods. By offering free milk through ATMs and donating refrigerators to charities, they are taking significant steps towards improving food security and nutrition among vulnerable populations.