One in five British schoolchildren don’t understand where milk comes from

Global dairy company Arla has released research that shows that 1 in 5 kids are unaware of where food like dairy comes from.

The Arla research revealed that one in 10 children believe that chocolate and bread is made on a farm, and almost half of 6- to 7-year-olds believe that a glass of squash has more nutrition than a glass of milk.

Arla has produced a storybook, Jonny and Jelly Go Round and Round based on a real dairy farmer and his cow, written for Key Stage 1 and 2 children, on the origins of dairy produce.

Danny Micklethwaite, director of the milk category at Arla, said: “When we found out just how few children really understand where their food comes from and how it’s produced, we realised this will also impact on their understanding of what makes a nutritious product.

"If kids are confused now, there’s the very real risk they’ll struggle to make positive choices as they grow, so we believe it’s important to get off to a good start and wanted to support that.”

Arla is offering the book as a free digital download for parents and will be making a donation to charity Magic Breakfast of 15,000 breakfasts to help feed vulnerable children in the UK. Arlas has also donated 580,000 milk vouchers to Magic Breakfast.

TV presenter and parent Helen Skelton (pictured below) is supporting the launch of the book, and said: “I grew up on a dairy farm so was lucky enough to connect what I saw around me every day with what was being put on the table, but I’m really aware that so many children don’t get that opportunity, so it’s easy to see how they can feel very disconnected to the food they eat.

"If we don’t know where our food comes from and what’s in it, how can we be expected to understand what’s good for us and what’s not? My kids have really enjoyed reading about Jonny and Jelly and finding out more about the food we enjoy.”

Arla farmer Jonny Burridge said: “It’s easy to take what we do for granted, but knowing that one in 10 children have never been on a farm, so have no idea what goes on here or what we’re producing, was a bit of an eye-opener for me.

"I’m really pleased that Jelly and I are the characters who will introduce children to life on a dairy farm and all that goes on here while we make the milk for their cereal. It’s even more special knowing the book is linked to making sure so many disadvantaged children are being given a good start to the day.”

Download the book here