Celebrating 10 Years Antibiotic Free!

At Gazegill, we made a decision in 2013 to 100% embrace antibiotic-free farming practices. This choice was driven by our desire to work in harmony with nature and prioritise the health and well-being of our cows. Even though organic farming does permit the limited use of antibiotics (within very strict guidelines), we’re proud to say we’ve officially gone 10 years without using them. 

In this blog, we’ll delve into why we chose to be antibiotic-free, how we have achieved this, and how we care for our animals without relying on routine antibiotic use.
 

The Dark Side of Antibiotic Use in Farming

Before we explain why we chose to be antibiotic-free, it’s important to understand the negatives around the use of antibiotics. 

In a life or death situation, where ultimately antibiotics would save the life of an animal, then without doubt we would use them to keep the animal alive. By not using antibiotics, our animals fall ill much less as they have been allowed to develop a healthy immune system. 

However, a vast majority of antibiotics that are administered in UK agriculture occur in intensive farming systems. In these instances, animals would be given frequent doses of antibiotics to prevent any potential issues from arising, as opposed to only giving them once a health issue arises. This is known as preventative use, and is the focus of much discussion at this current time, where minimising usage across the UK is gaining traction. 

Preventative use can culminate in a cocktail of negative consequences, such as having negative effects on the environment, compromising animal welfare, and contributing to the emergence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria which can potentially transmit to humans.

Why We Choose To Be Antibiotic-Free

Even though our antibiotic use has always been minimal (even dating back decades), Emma and Ian both decided 10 years ago that ultimately, antibiotic use isn’t necessary for us.

We know that working with nature is the best method of farming, and being antibiotic free goes hand in hand with this. 

Another very important reason to go antibiotic-free was down to Emma’s severe allergy to antibiotics. Emma is subject to a rare and potentially life-threatening skin allergy known as ‘Steven Johnson Syndrome’, where in her case, any interaction with antibiotics causes the dermis (inner layer of skin) to separate from the epidermis (outer layer of skin) and potentially cause sepsis. 

How We're Able To Be Antibiotic-Free

Our journey towards 100%  antibiotic-free farming has been made possible through a combination of practices that prioritise natural healing, good breeding, and the highest animal welfare standards possible.

Species Rich Meadows

At Gazegill, we maintain organic status, which means we abstain from using herbicides or pesticides on our meadows. 

This allows a wide variety of flora and fauna to flourish, providing our cows with diverse plant species. Not only that, but we have some of the only remaining wildflower meadows in Lancashire, which are officially classed as a heritage site. 

The pastures are where our cows spend their days grazing for around 250 days a year, organic regulations make it a legal obligation to have animals outside for as long as possible. When the weather isn’t suitable, they’re housed in 

our spacious straw barns and feed on the cut from summer, meaning they get their 100% grass-fed diet all year around.

The plants, grasses, flowers and herbs in our pasture and meadows all have their own individual healing properties and health benefits for our cows. We’ve witnessed with our own eyes on occasion where a Cow will be feeling under the weather, and then specifically pick out certain flora that they know can help with their ailment. 

Closed Herd And Genetic Immunity

We are proud to have a closed herd, which means that all our cows are born on our farm and not brought in from external sources. This practice ensures that no antibiotics have ever entered our herd, nor have any diseases or illnesses imported either. Over more than 20 years, our lineage has naturally built up immunity, which is genetically passed on with every calf born.

Attention To Detail And The Highest Animal Welfare Standards

Emma, a dedicated farmer and owner of Gazegill, has developed a deep connection with each cow.

She knows them by name and understands their individual personalities and needs. This level of attention enables early detection of any health issues, allowing for prompt and appropriate treatment without the use of antibiotics. We have adopted effective techniques used by her ancestors, proven to work before antibiotics were even discovered. The farm has run in her family for over 500 years!

Embracing Natural Conditions

Our cows spend the majority of their lives outdoors, benefiting from nature's best disinfectant – UV light. Sun exposure increases Vitamin D levels in animals, strengthening their immune systems. Our cows enjoy ample access to fresh air, sunlight, and natural grazing, ensuring their well-being and reducing the risk of infections.

Conclusion

At Gazegill, we have chosen a path of antibiotic-free farming to prioritise the health and well-being of our cows, promote sustainable practices, and reduce the risk of antibiotic resistance. 

Our commitment to species-rich meadows, a closed herd, and individualised care enables us to maintain the highest standards of animal welfare while providing our customers with pure, additive-free milk that is truly a product of nature. 

By embracing a holistic approach, we believe we can create a healthier and more sustainable future for both our animals and our planet.