«I get frustrated by the enormous dairy herds and the emphasis on producing volume,» she said.
Barrie advised farmers to make reductions in the size of their herds and focus on quality.
«Massive farms need heavy equipment and high maintenance but smaller units bring more biodiversity.
«Farmers could realise more value by having a mix of breeds in their herds, including Ayrshires and Jerseys.
«We saw a new cheese launched seven days ago and another two will be on stream within the next two months.
«A further six or so producers are working on cheeses which haven’t yet come to market.
«We are seeing a real growth in sustainable, environmentally friendly, local produce and it’s not just a middle class thing.
«I see plenty people at farmers markets in their twenties and thirties who’re prepared to pay a bit more to get a small portion with great flavour rather than a big chunk of industrially produced cheese which is tasteless.»