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Calf Farms
Calves are kept in groups at affiliated calf farms so that they can move freely. The groups are carefully composed according
to the conditions and dimensions determined in the tripartite agreement between the Dutch government, the Dutch animal protection
society and Dutch businesses. With this agreement, the Netherlands is ahead of European legislation. The calf farmers continually
provide professional care for individual animals. The farmers are under the strict control of various bodies, including the
veal calf quality guarantee foundation (SKV). They are also guided by farming specialists within the VanDrie organisation.
The calves’ accommodation meets strict regulations to promote the animals’ welfare, such as freedom of movement,
amount of light, ventilation, fresh air supply and opportunity to drink.
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Feed
The main ingredient of the feed is calf milk, which is partly responsible for the fine structure of the characteristically
white veal. Calf milk consists of pure milk products such as skim milk powder and whey powder, plus natural nutritional supplements
for the calf’s healthy growth. Calves receive additional crude fibre, including forage maize, in the feed regimen, enabling
the calf’s stomach and intestinal functions to develop naturally. Group Grown veal is, of course, free of growth promotors
and other unwanted substances. This is checked at all stages of farming and feeding by the independent veal calf quality guarantee
foundation (SKV). SKV applies serious penalties in the event of violations. SKV also checks compliance with regulations for
the Identification and Registration System and IKB regulations.
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