At CONO Cheesemakers we believe that the tastiest cheese starts with healthy soil, happy cows and a thriving ecosystem. Together with our dairy farmers, we work every day to achieve a fair balance between people, animals and nature. Read here how we do sustainable business in the pasture.
Pasture Access 2025
pasture per day
of livestock farmers practice grazing
Grazing
For years, CONO members have been actively promoting pasture grazing. The fact that this represented a major step forward in animal welfare, sustainability, and milk quality is evident from the fact that nearly every dairy processor in the Netherlands has now adopted this practice. By 2025, 97% of our dairy farmers had their cows grazing in pastures. This percentage is once again well above the national average (77% in 2023). On average, our cows spent 185 days a year outdoors, about 10 hours a day.
Start of grazing season 2025
It is always a celebratory moment when the cows go back to pasture, for both cow and farmer.
An annual moment that goes beyond tradition alone - it underscores our ranchers' commitment to animal welfare, natural nutrition and sustainable milk production.
Herb-rich grassland
The herb-rich grassland on which the cows graze here plays an important role in the high quality of the milk. In addition, it is good for biodiversity.
Meadow bird management
CONO livestock farmers are championing grassland birds with smart measures such as later mowing and wetlands.
Thanks to wildlife management, breeding and newborn meadow birds have food and hiding places. This directly contributes to biodiversity and a vibrant farm landscape.
Soil in balance
Livestock farmer Sandra Oudshoorn works to maintain healthy soil by promoting natural processes and avoiding fertilizers, leading to healthier cows, better milk and more biodiversity