Lanka Milk Foods (CWE) PLC (LMF) has set an extraordinary benchmark by achieving a record milk production of 62,000 liters of milk per day from a single source at its Ambewela farm. This represents a truly massive increase from the reported 3,000 liters to 60,000 liters per day. When the company took over the facility from the public sector in 2001, it started with a daily production of less than 3000 litres. Now contributing 20 million liters of milk annually to Sri Lanka’s national supply.
This achievement is the result of years of meticulous planning, significant investment and implementation of innovative farming practices. A major milestone was reached in 2019 with the introduction of two automated milking stations and milking systems, part of a R5 billion investment in modernization. These systems doubled production capacity within two years and brought the farm up to world-class standards. Every detail, from dairy cow comfort to computerized management systems.
The success of farms stems not only from infrastructure but also from forward-thinking practices. An advanced breeding program using globally renowned buffalo semen has enabled the production of high yielding cows locally. Comparable to the best commercial herds worldwide, these genetically superior cows produce 12,000 liters per 305-day milking cycle. Furthermore, strict health monitoring and preventive measures ensure that the herd is healthy and disease-free while maintaining productivity.
Nutrition also plays an important role in maintaining this high yield. With the guidance of international nutritionists, the farm uses precision feeding systems tailored to meet the needs of high yielding cattle. In addition, purpose-bred grass, imported and grown on the farm’s pastures, provides optimal nutrition. Advanced feeding and care systems for calves ensure superior growth and early maturity, resulting in continuous improvements in herd productivity. As a result of this, dairy cows at Ambewela farm produce up to 40 liters of milk per cow per day.
Commenting on this achievement, General Manager Farms, Mr. Sarath Bandara said, “This milestone has been achieved through a collaborative approach, blending international expertise with the knowledge and commitment of our local teams. It represents the culmination of years of hard work, strategic planning and innovation. By combining global knowledge with local expertise and commitment, we have set a new standard for dairy production in Sri Lanka. We are committed to uplift the dairy industry and support national self-sufficiency through improved productivity and quality excellence.
