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RDP project database

Glass Organic Dairy: Transparency from Farmer to Fridge

Summary

In early 2010 the first nationwide glass dairy in Münchehofe was opened. It processes organic milk from the surrounding organic farmers and gives visitors an insight into the manufacturing and production processes of the regional dairy products.

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Background

The idea of this project arose from the recognised need to promote sustainable regional food production and consumption. On the other hand, this was an opportunity to maintain and increase the capacities of the organic food producers in the Brandenburg State.

Objective

The objective was to promote sustainable management in harmony with nature and environmentally sound production of food in Münchehofe. The construction of new facilities should allow for hosting visitors and giving them insight into sustainable, regional dairy production.

Main activities

In April 2008 the foundation stone for the construction of innovative organic dairy was placed. As a result, a transparent dairy has been constructed, which can be visited. Over a glass walk through the facility, visitors can trace the various production processes of biologically valuable dairy products, from delivery to the finished product. The products are delivered by organic farmers from the region and can be obtained in the dairy shop.

Results & Benefits

The project greatly contributed to promoting sustainable, regional food production and consumption, increasing production capacity and employment (from 23 to 45 jobs). There are numerous visitors coming to the glass dairy. In particular, constructed facilities (i.e. garden, playground) allow hosting school groups. The education programme of the dairy strongly focuses on strengthening the regional identity of younger generations and valuing locally produced food.

Lessons learnt

The project is very innovative in the country scale and greatly illustrates how the sustainable regional development concept can be combined with the benefits for dairy farmers.

Project location and other information

Münchehofe, State Brandenburg

Region

Brandenburg-Berlin

RDP Territory

Brandenburg and Berlin

Total project cost (€)

10 973 075

EAFRD contribution (€)

2 057 445

National contribution (€)

411 489

Private contribution (€)

8 229 815

Other funding sources (€)

274 326

Contact name

Hubert Böhmann

Telephone

+49 3887333790

Languages for contact

German

Original Language version

At a glance

Country

Germany

Final beneficiary type

Individual farmers, Non-farm or non-forest entreprises, Other

Budget range

> €500 000

Start date:

20/06/2007

End Date:

31/03/2010

Theme / Measure:

• Competitiveness of Agriculture & Forestry
• Restructuring, developing physical potential, and promoting innovation
• 123. Adding value to agricultural and forestry products

Keywords:

Organic farming, Awareness raising, Innovation, Dairy sector, Local food

Last update

22/05/2012