Schulz Organic launches new milk tap system for cafes

Beer on tap has been a fixture in pubs for generations. But milk on tap in cafes? Entrepreneurs say it could become commonplace.

They’re reminiscent of the bar set-up at your local pub.

But instead of a cold frothy, these taps are made for a proper cup of coffee.

Developed and manufactured in Tasmania, The Udder Way keg system is a reusable milk storage and handling unit designed for food service and retail.

Each unit holds 18 litres of milk, and allows for refrigerated storage and dispensing of milk from an installed tap – avoiding the need for baristas to churn through dozens of plastic milk bottles each day.

Milk tap installed as part of the joint initiative between Schulz Organic and The Udder Way

The Udder Way founder Edward Crick launched system alongside Schulz Organic Dairy founder Simon Schulz in Melbourne on Friday.

In Victoria, Schulz will be the initial milk supplier to cafes and retailers using keg system

“We have partnered with Schulz Organic Dairy because we share a similar vision and mission,” Mr Crick said.

“Each of our kegs eliminates the need for 7000 single-use plastic bottles over an eight to 10 year lifespan before being recycled.”

Schulz Organic Dairy founder Simon Schulz. Picture- Nicole Cleary

Participating Melbourne businesses include The Leaf Stores in Hawthorn and Elwood, Into Coffee and CIBI in Collingwood as well as Rat the Café in Thornbury.

Schulz Organic has gained made in-roads in the dairy sector for its reusable glass bottle system, whereby customers pay a deposit for a returnable container.

Mr Schulz said since introducing the system three years ago, his company had diverted about 26.9 tonnes of plastic from landfill.

“Limiting plastic waste isn’t cheap or easy but we know there is a lot of support out there for sustainable processes and packaging,” he said.