Overview of Denmark's Dairy Industry

The Danish dairy sector is a vital component of the country's agriculture, known for its exceptional quality and international reach. Major companies, such as Arla Foods, play a leading role, emphasizing sustainability and technological innovation.

Dairy Cattle and Milk Production

Denmark supports approximately 560,000 dairy cattle, integral to its extensive milk production system. The nation produces about 5.6 billion kilograms of milk annually, highlighting its dedication to sustainable farming practices and substantial contributions to both local and global dairy markets.

Milk Processing

The Danish dairy industry processes around 5.4 billion kilograms of milk each year, indicative of its advanced infrastructure and robust processing capabilities. This capacity is crucial for maintaining the quality and efficiency of Denmark's dairy products.

Cheese Production

Denmark is renowned for its high-quality cheeses, exporting approximately 500,000 tonnes annually. This bolsters its export market and enhances its global reputation for premium dairy products.

Milk Powder and Whey Production

Denmark is a leader in the production of milk powder and whey, with an estimated annual output of 1.2 million tonnes. These products are vital for both domestic consumption and the international supply chain.

Key Dairy Enterprises

Notable Danish dairy enterprises include Arla Foods, Thise Dairy, Hansen Dairy, and Mammen Cheese. Significant dairy farms in Denmark include Tinglev Dairy Farm, Gudsoe Dairy Farm, Holmdrup Dairy, and Lemvig Dairy Farm.

Recent Events in the Dairy Market

The Danish dairy sector is undergoing significant transformations. Arla Foods has invested DKK 200 million in its Esbjerg Dairy Center to enhance the premium milk beverage market with brands like Starbucks and Cocio. However, rising raw milk prices, currently at 47.06 euro cents per kilogram, are impacting farmer profitability and consumer prices. Additionally, Denmark's decision not to extend the nitrogen stocking rate derogation necessitates stricter environmental compliance.

Export and Import of Dairy Products

The Danish dairy industry is heavily export-oriented, with annual exports valued at approximately €2.2 billion. Key export markets include Germany, the UK, and China. On the import side, Denmark purchases around €0.4 billion worth of dairy products annually, focusing on specialty cheeses and niche products not widely produced domestically.

Conclusion

The Danish dairy industry is characterized by substantial production volumes, sophisticated processing capacities, and a robust global presence. Companies like Arla Foods continue to innovate to address regulatory changes and market trends, ensuring ongoing growth and competitiveness. Despite challenges such as global issues like bluetongue disease and China's anti-subsidy investigations, strategic expansions, such as Arla Foods' acquisition of the Semper facility from Switzerland's Hero Group, highlight growth potential. Denmark remains a key cheese supplier to South Korea, with ongoing efforts to promote sustainable agricultural practices. Regulations impose additional requirements on large farms, emphasizing the need to optimize productivity due to regulations for farms exceeding a certain number of animals.

Innovative Practices

The Danish plant of Arla Foods uses an innovative electric high-temperature heat pump at its AKAFA powdered milk plant in Svenstrup, Denmark, replacing natural gas in drying processes, demonstrating commitment to sustainability. A Danish startup, PlanetDairy, launched hybrid milk combining cow’s milk and plant proteins, aiming to appeal to eco-conscious consumers while reducing carbon emissions by 30%-40%.

Denmark has been awarded the Yves Boutonnat International Milk Promotion Trophy at the IDF World Dairy Summit 2025. Denmark's 'Think Dairy' campaign was recognized for its creativity, impact, and contribution to promoting dairy in a positive and innovative way.

Modified: 2025/10/28