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The United Kingdom: A Deep Dive into the Dairy Industry

Overview
The United Kingdom (UK) is a key player in the global dairy industry, underpinned by a significant dairy cattle population and advanced processing infrastructure. With approximately 1.8 million dairy cattle, the country produces about 15 billion liters of milk annually, cementing its position in both national and international markets.

Dairy Processing and Production

The UK's dairy processing sector is highly developed, producing around 450,000 tonnes of cheese, 150,000 tonnes of milk powder, and 300,000 tonnes of whey each year. These figures reflect a robust processing capability that fosters innovation and supports sustained growth.

Key Dairy Enterprises

• Arla Foods: Known for innovative products such as Starbucks protein drinks and Lurpak® Plant-Based offerings.
• Müller: Focuses on enhancing processing capabilities to support smaller farms.
• Long Clawson Dairy: Renowned for Stilton cheese, with notable sales growth in mid-2023.
• Millbrook Dairy: Engaged in community projects, including the Tuk-Tuk Charity Challenge.

Prominent Dairy Farms

• Sandford Farm: Dedicated to producing high-quality milk.
• Holstein UK Herd: A significant contributor to the national milk supply chain.
• Devonshire Dairy: Essential for dairy product distribution across the UK.
• Lancashire Farm Dairies: Specializes in yogurt and milk products.

Export and Import Dynamics

The UK engages actively in global dairy trade, with exports valued at approximately £1.6 billion and imports around £2.2 billion annually. This underscores the UK's important role on the international stage alongside strong domestic demand.

Recent Events and Developments

• In August 2023, Arla launched new product lines with a focus on innovation.
• Müller initiated efforts to bolster small farms by enhancing their processing capabilities.
• Long Clawson Dairy reported a notable sales increase in Stilton cheese in July 2023.
• Millbrook Dairy participated in charitable activities, such as the Tuk-Tuk Charity Challenge, in June 2023.
• The 29th British & Irish Cheese Awards crowned Burford by King Stone Dairy as the Supreme Champion.

Trends and Challenges

The UK dairy industry is shifting towards sustainability while addressing challenges like livestock import restrictions and changing market demands. Key initiatives include Danone's exploration of local oat production and Skyr yogurt expansion, the DAERA innovation program in Northern Ireland aimed at dairy reform, and Yeo Valley's transition into organic beef production. Furthermore, Saputo has implemented cost-cutting measures at the Davidstow Creamery.

Global developments, such as free trade agreements and Germany's lifted pig meat import restrictions, are influencing the broader market landscape. There is optimism as Unilever expands in Singapore, capitalizing on health-conscious consumer trends.

Future focus areas will include modernization and adaptability, demonstrated by the Arla and DMK Group merger set to create jobs and apprenticeships by 2027. An increasing interest in kefir among younger UK consumers and fluctuating agriculture market dynamics affecting pistachio prices also shape the industry's future.

Sector Adjustments and Research Endeavors

Lakeland Dairies announced a new base milk price in Northern Ireland, indicating sector adjustments. Discussions emphasize transparency in UK dairy farming practices, aiming to address activist narratives. Portakabin inaugurated the Dairy Nexus at Scotland's Rural University and College to advance research in dairy sustainability and productivity. Additionally, a study co-authored by George Holmes sheds light on the mental well-being challenges faced by UK dairy farmers, affecting their career decisions.

In a notable development, UK dairy farmers took to TikTok to protest against milk purchaser Müller after the company halted milk collection, urging producers to dispose of milk.

The UK has introduced a ban on passengers bringing meat and dairy into the country from Europe to prevent the spread of foot and mouth disease, following a worrying risk assessment by Defra.

The UK Treasury announces plans to extend the sugar tax to milkshakes and similar beverages, aiming to combat obesity.

Modified: 2025/05/04