The Beef Cattle Switzerland labels stand for high-quality Swiss beef from suckler cow husbandry and pasture grazing. To ensure consumers can rely on the quality and origin of their purchases, the establishments are inspected regularly – and the inspections are usually unannounced. Such an approach enables the inspectors to see the farm in authentic conditions.
But who actually guarantees the quality behind the labels?
“The results of the inspections are proof that suckler cow farmers are committed to the well-being of their cattle.”
Meike Wollenberg Martínez, Head of beef control
Regular unannounced checks
The production facilities are regularly inspected by the independent inspection body “beef control”. In addition, the Schweizer Tierschutz (STS) inspection service carries out inspections on behalf of Beef Cattle Switzerland. As a rule, the inspections are unannounced. This requires a great deal of flexibility on the part of farmers. They must be prepared to change their daily schedule from one moment to the next to ensure they are available for an inspection. This boosts the credibility of such inspections.
Seasonal inspections
Most inspections take place in the winter months, as the requirements for housing cattle in winter are more varied and complex. However, a farm can also be inspected without prior announcement in summer, for example to ensure the animals have enough drinking water and have access to shade during sunny weather. In very hot conditions, some herds are left in the pasture at night to avoid heat-induced stress.
Assessment criteria
The following aspects are checked during the inspections:
- Housing method and freedom of movement of the cattle
- Daily exercise in the fresh air, if possible in the pasture from spring to autumn
- Feed consisting of grass, hay and grass silage (only a small amount of grain or maize is allowed)
- Enough space to eat and lie down
- Cleanliness of the stables—especially the resting areas—and the cattle themselves
The condition of the cattle is at the heart of every check
The inspectors check whether suckler cows and calves live together, their general condition, whether they are clean and whether they are being properly treated in the event of illness. “It is pleasing to note that the producers of Natura-Beef and Natura-Veal have been awarded a very good rating. You can tell they are passionate about what they do and are committed to the well-being of their suckler cows and calves day and night,” says Meike Wollenberg Martínez, Head of beef control.
Inspection body
beef control is an inspection body accredited in accordance with EN ISO/IEC 17020. On behalf of Beef Cattle Switzerland, this inspection body checks compliance with the label requirements on the farms.