Locally-produced milk from Midlands farm

Boora Bainne, a family-run dairy farm in Offaly, is attracting growing attention for its fresh, locally produced milk, sold to customers through on-site vending machines.

Having opened five years ago, the company's milk has proven popular with those interested in supporting local producers, with customers keen to know exactly where their milk comes from.

“We pasteurise on the site and sell it on the farm through a vending machine,” owner Paul Molloy said, adding that they also work with coffee shops, restaurants, and other commercial customers.

“For a customer that is concerned about buying local or buying from a single-source producer, there’s not really many options."

The vending machines attracts curiosity with its flavoured options, at its core is a strong base of repeat customers.

“There’s probably a novelty effect there,” he said, “but we have a lot of regular customers coming two or three times a week to get the milk”.

A key difference lies in the product itself. Unlike standard supermarket milk, it is non-homogenised and minimally processed.

“It’s a very different product to what you’d buy in a shop, it is creamier,” he said. “If you leave it in the fridge overnight, there’ll be cream on the top.”

Unlike large milk processors, Boora Bainne do not homogenise their milk.

"We very gently heat it up to 65 degrees and hold it there for half an hour. This is how we extend the shelf life of the milk whilst preserving the taste of raw milk by not changing its structure," Paul said.

"Once the milk has cooled down, we fill up our milk barrels and place them in our milk refill machines. Then, you can fill up one of our reusable glass bottles or any receptacle you wish with fresh, local milk."

The farm is now entering a new phase of growth, with a modernised facility currently under construction which is expected to open later this summer.

“We’re in the middle of building a new facility with new vending machines and some new products,” he said.

There are also plans to expand beyond the farm, with a second vending location in development.

Customers can follow the farm’s updates online or get in touch directly on 086 331 6937 for enquiries and potential deliveries.