Producers are aware of the importance of animal welfare and their responsibilities for animal welfare. They recognize the growing awareness among consumers and the need to strengthen their commitment to improving animal welfare to support access to domestic and foreign markets.

Animal health and welfare are fundamental to the success and sustainability of any farm and producers are held accountable for the welfare of their animals.
Also, an important and decisive role is played by the shift of consumers to the replacement of products of animal origin with preparations based on plant production.

To ensure the above requirements during the production, processing and distribution of milk products or milk-based products, legal requirements and regulations have been established both at local and international level, as well as management standards that belong to the voluntary sector and are ensured through certification by accredited certification bodies.

In order to meet all the above requirements, the livestock units for milk production/Milk Producers and Processors should actively participate in the challenges of the industrial production of dairy products and their derivatives (e.g. Halloumi), through the application of this standard.

The Certification Body MYCERT in collaboration with milk producers, breeders and producers of dairy products took the initiative to create a standard setting high goals in the consumer market encompassing all applicable legislation governing Animal Welfare.
This Standard has established criteria for the Welfare of dairy animals, milk and milk-based products under the name Animal Welfare.

Purpose
The purpose of this Standard is to harmonize livestock farms/Milk Producers/Processors for ensuring Animal Welfare through the livelihood and the high nutritional value of the animal which is a key criterion in the specifications of milk and its derivatives.

Categories of Businesses to be certified
Businesses that can be certified, according to the requirements of this standard, can belong to at least one of the following two categories:
i. Milk Production: The breeder/Milk Producer who produces only raw milk.
ii. Production of Dairy Products: In this category belong either the breeder/milk producer or the dairy product producer/Processor who has a modern and controlled milk verticalization unit.

The advantages of applying the Animal Welfare Quality Standard can be significant:
1. Enhanced Consumer Trust: By adhering to this standard, producers demonstrate their commitment to animal welfare, which aligns with the growing awareness and concern among consumers. This can lead to increased trust and loyalty from consumers who prioritize ethical and humane treatment of animals.
2. Market Access: Meeting the Animal Welfare Quality Standard can facilitate access to both domestic and international markets. Many consumers and markets have specific requirements related to animal welfare, and compliance with this standard can open doors to these markets.
3. Sustainability: Animal health and welfare are crucial for the long-term sustainability of farms. Healthy and well-cared-for animals are more productive and contribute to the overall success of the farm. This can result in improved economic sustainability for producers.
4. Legal Compliance: Adhering to the standard ensures compliance with legal requirements and regulations at both local and international levels. This reduces the risk of legal issues and associated penalties.
5. Certification: Certification by accredited bodies verifies an organization's commitment to animal welfare, providing a recognized and credible endorsement. This can be used for marketing and promotional purposes.
6. Consumer Preferences: As consumers increasingly shift towards plant-based products, the Animal Welfare Quality Standard can help traditional dairy producers adapt and potentially diversify their product offerings to meet changing consumer preferences.
7. Competitive Advantage: Certification under this standard can provide a competitive edge in the market by differentiating products as meeting higher animal welfare standards, which can attract conscientious consumers.
8. Collaboration and Industry Standards: Collaboration with certification bodies, producers, and breeders to establish and adhere to this standard contributes to industry-wide improvements in animal welfare, creating a positive image for the entire sector.
9. Improved Animal Welfare: Ultimately, the primary advantage is the improved welfare of dairy animals, which aligns with ethical and humane practices. This not only benefits animals but also enhances the quality of dairy products and their derivatives.