Saputo has announced it is not accepting milk from Chilliwack Cattle Sales following the release of images capturing the abuse of cattle.

Mercy for Animals Canada released an undercover video showing dairy cows being whipped and beaten with chains and canes as well as punch and kicked. A petition was launched urging Saputo to take action.

The Canadian dairy said: “Such reprehensible behaviour, which offends not only Saputo’s values but also those of its consumers and customers, does not occur in the future.”

It added: “Like all dairy processors in Canada, Saputo is required by law to purchase milk from the provincial milk marketing boards. While we do not own the farms, we care deeply about the way the milk we sell is produced. We will not accept milk from the BC Milk Marketing Board supplied by this farm until we are fully satisfied that strict animal welfare practices are in place.”