Overview

• The July 6–7 farming special reused 2021 footage of the Lilburn family’s zero grazing system in County Down.
• Social media users described the practice as a “cruel celebration of factory farming” and argued cows need outdoor exercise.
• Richard and Pamela Lilburn defended their approach as a five-star hotel for cows, citing fresh beds, scratchers, foot baths and daily grass deliveries.
• Although zero grazing remains a minority practice in UK dairy farming, the episode cited research showing growing farmer interest.
• BBC Countryfile has not issued a formal response to the backlash as debate over the ethics of intensive indoor farming continues.