Workers at an award-winning dairy farm supplying Tesco and Muller have been accused of animal cruelty, with undercover footage showing cows being punched, kicked, and subjected to other forms of abuse. The incidents allegedly occurred at Albyns Farm near Loughton, Essex.
Disturbing scenes captured during an undercover operation show animals being kicked in the udders and underbellies, slapped, and prodded with sharp objects. In one instance, a lit cigarette was allegedly pressed to a cow's face. The footage, obtained by animal rights activist Joey Carbstrong, also documented workers shouting at the animals, twisting their tails, and calves being separated from their mothers or dragged by their legs.
Around 600 alleged incidents were identified across two hour-long samples of footage filmed between September-October 2024 and February-March 2026. Animal welfare expert Jenny Mace stated that the footage showed indicators of pain and distress, including flinching, running from fear, bellowing, and escape attempts.
Following the evidence being handed to dairy bosses, several staff members have been dismissed. Curtismill Holsteins, the owner of Albyns Farm, stated they were launching a full, independent investigation with an external animal-welfare specialist, installing supplementary CCTV, and increasing staff training. "We are determined to ensure this never happens again," a spokesman for the business said.
Muller, a major buyer of the farm's milk, has suspended the farm and confirmed that a full investigation, including independent veterinary and Red Tractor inspections, was conducted. "The behaviour shown is entirely unacceptable and is fundamentally in breach of the high standards of animal health and welfare which we require every supplying farm to uphold," a Muller spokesperson stated. The company added that employees at fault have been dismissed and corrective actions implemented, with the farm subject to ongoing monitoring.
Tesco also suspended the farm pending a thorough investigation. "Any failure to meet our high welfare standards is unacceptable and we take swift action where necessary," a Tesco statement read.
The Crown Estate, which owns the land leased to Albyns Farm, stated it has no role in the farm's management. The farm has previously received accolades in farming awards and was a member of the Tesco Sustainable Dairy Group.