Israel's Dairy Industry: An Analytical Report

Overview

Israel is a significant player in the global dairy industry, renowned for its advanced agricultural technologies and efficient milk production systems. This country has a well-developed dairy sector, encompassing diverse segments from cattle and goat milk production to extensive processing capacities for various dairy products.

Key Statistics

Number of Dairy Cattle

Israel has approximately 125,000 dairy cows, producing high yields due to advanced breeding and feeding practices.

Milk Production Volume

The annual milk production in Israel stands at around 1.5 billion liters. The high efficiency of Israeli dairy farms contributes to this substantial output.

Milk Processing Volume

Israel processes approximately 1.4 billion liters of milk per year, indicating an efficient transition from raw milk to a diverse range of dairy products.

Cheese Production Volume

The cheese production volume in Israel is estimated to be around 90,000 tons per year, with varieties ranging from traditional soft cheeses to modern hard cheese types.

Milk Powder and Whey Production

Annually, Israel produces approximately 20,000 tons of milk powder and 10,000 tons of whey products. These products are vital for both domestic use and export markets.

Key Enterprises

Dairy Plants

• Tnuva
• Strauss Group
• Terra Dairy
• Gad Dairy

Dairy Farms

• Kibbutz Yotvata Dairy Farm
• Kibbutz Afikim Dairy Farm
• Kibbutz Shamir Dairy Farm

Export of Dairy Products

Israel exports approximately $250 million worth of dairy products annually, including cheeses, milk powder, and whey. Major export markets include the United States, China, and the European Union.

Import of Dairy Products

Imports of dairy products into Israel amount to about $150 million per year. Key imports include specialty cheeses and dairy ingredients not produced locally.

Significant Events in the Dairy Industry

One notable event in Israel's dairy industry is its continuous technological advancements. Israeli dairy farms are among the most productive in the world due to innovations in milking and feeding technology. Additionally, Israel's dairy industry frequently collaborates with international bodies to improve global standards and practices.

In 2023, Israel participated in major trade fairs like Anuga and SIAL, where it showcased its dairy products, helping to strengthen its presence in international markets.

Israel's long-standing reputation and consistent efforts in improving dairy technology, coupled with efficient production and processing systems, ensure that it remains a significant player in the global dairy sector.

In Israel, the assortment of Karums curds snacks was expanded, introducing packaging made especially for this market. Exemption from traditional regulatory requirements under Anexo III.

Modified: 2025/02/05

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