Coca-Cola Fairlife supplier cuts ties with 2 Arizona farms over animal cruelty allegations

Key Takeaways:

• A supplier of milk to Coca-Cola’s Fairlife brand has severed ties with two Arizona farms following allegations of animal cruelty by Animal Recovery Mission.
• The investigation revealed mistreatment of animals by employees at Rainbow Valley and Butterfield Dairy farms, prompting Fairlife supplier United Dairymen of Arizona to suspend milk delivery from these facilities.
• Fairlife asserts zero tolerance for animal abuse and requires its suppliers to adhere to strict animal welfare standards.

Insights:

The recent Arizona investigation adds to previous allegations of animal abuse at Fairlife’s Indiana dairy farms, leading to a $21 million settlement in 2022 for false advertising claims.

Despite ongoing challenges, Fairlife has surpassed $1 billion in retail sales and remains a lucrative brand for Coca-Cola, with plans to expand operations in New York.

Fairlife’s commitment to animal welfare includes significant investments in its program, while United Dairymen of Arizona emphasizes education and accountability for its farm members.

While facing criticism, Fairlife continues to lead the U.S. white milk market, reflecting strong consumer demand for its products.