The NOVA AÇORES PASTAGEM brand recently obtained the "Animal Welfair®" well-being certification, becoming one of the pioneers in the dairy sector in the region to achieve this recognition.

This certification, awarded by CERTIS, is homologated by IRTA and is the result of the implementation of best animal well-being practices, based on assessment protocols developed by Welfare Quality® and AWIN®.

During this process, the farms are audited, with direct observation of the animals in order to ensure compliance with the four principles of animal well-being: good nutrition, good housing, good health, and appropriate behavior.

For Pedro Tavares, President of LactAçores, "this is an important milestone for the consolidation of the brand! It is another value-adding element for our products and thus, we are also contributing to the sustainability of the entire dairy chain in the Azores".

"It is a gratifying recognition, the result of the work developed in recent times and that goes hand in hand with our mission, to bring the best foods to the table of our customers, with a strong commitment to respect for the values of ethical, responsible and sustainable production, in line with the demands of consumers!"

Animal Well-Being is a priority for LactAçores and its associated cooperatives, which is why various works have been carried out with the farms, through the improvement of pastures, the focus on prophylaxis and veterinary care, in order to always ensure maximum comfort, health, good nutrition, and quality of life for our animals.

The Milk Nova Açores Pastagem is the result of this strategy, a high-quality milk from cows that roam freely through the pastures of São Miguel for 365 days a year, respecting good animal and environmental practices.

LactAçores is a Union of Dairy Cooperative Producers and is part of Unileite (S. Miguel), Uniqueijo (S. Jorge), Calf (Faial). It represents almost two dozen well-known national brands and is present in 20 different countries. Currently, it has about 900 producers, employs 600 workers, collects and transforms through its associates, about 40% of the milk in the Azores.