Workers Accused of Animal Cruelty at Dairy Supplying Major UK Retailers
Undercover footage reveals alleged abuse of cows at award-winning farm; Tesco and Müller suspend operations pending investigation.
Workers at Albyns Farm, an award-winning dairy that supplies milk to major retailers Tesco and Müller, have been accused of punching, kicking, and ill-treating cows, according to an undercover investigation. The footage, reportedly captured between September-October 2024 and February-March 2026, shows incidents including animals being kicked in the udders, prodded with sharp objects, and one instance where a lit cigarette was allegedly pressed against a cow's face.
Several staff members have been dismissed following the revelation. Dairy owner Curtismill Holsteins, based near Loughton in Essex, stated they are launching a full, independent investigation, enlisting an external animal-welfare specialist for an additional audit, and increasing staff training and CCTV monitoring. The business has emphasized its commitment to welfare and expressed disappointment with the reported behavior, calling it unacceptable.
Müller has suspended the farm and confirmed that employees found to be at fault have been dismissed. A spokesperson stated that the behavior breaches their required standards and that corrective actions have been implemented, with the farm under ongoing monitoring. Tesco has also suspended the farm pending its own thorough investigation, asserting a commitment to high welfare standards.
Albyns Farm sells two-fifths of its milk to Müller and is a member of the Tesco Sustainable Dairy Group. The investigation was conducted by animal rights activist Joey Carbstrong. An animal welfare expert, Jenny Mace, reviewed the footage and identified indicators of pain and distress in the animals, such as flinching, running from fear, and bellowing.
The Crown Estate, which owns the land leased to Albyns Farm, stated it has no role in the farm's management. The allegations come despite the farm's owner having previously boasted of "zero non-conformity issues" during farm audits, raising questions about audit effectiveness in preventing animal cruelty, according to the investigator.