A significant theft of cheddar from Neal’s Yard Dairy has left suppliers reeling.
- 22 tonnes of cheddar, worth £300,000, was handed to a fraudulent distributor.
- Westcombe Dairy, a key supplier, expresses distress and highlights trust concerns.
- Celebrity chef Jamie Oliver alerts public to potential sales of the stolen cheese.
- Police investigations continue, with no arrests made so far.
The recent theft of a substantial amount of cheddar from Neal’s Yard Dairy in London has led to widespread concern among cheese producers and the public. The incident involved 22 tonnes of cheddar, valued at £300,000, being fraudulently obtained by someone posing as a distributor for a major French retailer.
Tom Calver, director of Westcombe Dairy in Somerset, is among the affected suppliers. He stated, “I was really concerned about what it was and the implications of it.” Despite the theft, Neal’s Yard Dairy has assured payment to all affected producers, including Hafod and Pitchfork, to shield them from financial repercussions.
Calver expressed his distress over the theft, emphasising the absurdity of stealing such a large quantity of cheese. He remarked on the incident’s peculiar nature and highlighted the value people place on artisan foods. His Westcombe Cheddar, aged for over a year, was part of the stolen shipment.
Celebrity chef Jamie Oliver brought attention to the incident through social media, warning his followers about the stolen “posh cheese” potentially being sold at a discount. Oliver described the theft as a “real shame” and urged vigilance in the food community.
The Metropolitan Police are actively investigating the case, confirmed that inquiries are ongoing but no arrests have been made yet. The theft underscores the need for increased trust within the food supply chain, as noted by Calver, who also mentioned Westcombe Dairy’s commitment to sustainable farming practices.
The theft of 22 tonnes of cheddar highlights significant issues of trust and security within the artisan food industry.
