Malta Dairy Products Ltd

Malta Dairy Products Ltd (MDP) is the leading processing dairy plant in the Maltese islands. Its history goes back to 1938 when a government department then known as MMU (Milk Marketing Undertaking) was set up to start pasteurizing and packaging milk.  In 1986 the responsibilities of MMU were taken up by the present company MDP.  The shareholding has changed over the years.  At presently it is owned by KPH (KooperativaProdutturital-Halib), the Maltese dairy farmers cooperative (70% shareholding) and the Government of Malta through Malta Government Investments Ltd. (30 % shareholding).

MDP processes, packs and distributes fresh liquid milk originating only from the Maltese islands.  Milk is collected daily from around 67 dairy farms in Malta and another 33 in Gozo. The milk is not sterilised but simply pasteurized to retain its fresh taste and quality.  The brand name, Benna, originates from the Maltese word “bnin” (meaning wholesome) and refers to the high nutrient value of fresh milk products. MDP’s principal product is fresh drinking Milk with a range of fat contents and flavours. MDP also produces Yogurts, Cream and a range of Cheeses including Mozzarella and traditional Maltese favorites such as irkotta and cheeselets (gbejniet).

The dairy is equipped with the latest state-of-the-art equipment, ensuring that all its products are produced in a hygienic and efficient manner.  However, investment in new equipment and machinery is ongoing as a result of MDP’s commitment towards the quality of its products and its policy of continuous improvement.

MDP employs around 120 full time employees both in Malta and Gozo.  The main operation is in Hamrun, Malta.  A collection center in Xewkija, Gozo collects milk from Gozitan farmers in the morning and sends the milk to Hamrun in the afternoon. Benna products are distributed every morning throughout the islands by 40 self-employed distributors.  This system is very efficient and ensures that customers are provided with fresh milk and other dairy products on a daily basis.