A round-up of the week’s key events in the dairy industry in Ukraine and around the world 👇
🌍 The dairy market is on the brink of historic changes
Price pressures, rising costs, and the consolidation of the processing sector are reshaping the industry, whilst demand for dairy products remains stable.
🇩🇪 Demand for butter and cheese is rising in Germany
Consumption of butter and cheese is on the rise, whilst demand for drinking milk continues to fall.
🇩🇪 There are calls in Germany to abolish VAT on food
Politicians are proposing to reduce VAT on basic foodstuffs, including dairy products, to curb price rises for consumers.
🇨🇭 The Swiss fill the holes in Emmental cheese with hay powder
Due to stricter hygiene standards for milk, the natural holes in the cheese have disappeared, so producers have started using hay flower powder.
🇷🇴 In Romania, the price of milk rises from farm to shop shelf
The difference between farm-gate prices and retail prices is as much as sevenfold, which is fuelling the debate over the distribution of margins within the supply chain.
🌱 Fermentation enhances the health benefits of plant-based milk alternatives
New research shows that fermented oat and soya products have superior antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
📊 German farmers receive less than half the price of milk
Only around 48% of the retail price goes to producers, whilst a significant proportion is taken up by processing, logistics, and retail.
🇺🇦 “Ukrainian dairy producers are aiming to expand exports to EU countries” – Arsen Didur
The sector is seeking new markets and boosting its competitiveness amid changes in trade conditions with the EU.
🥤 Danone is expanding its protein strategy into new formats
The company is moving beyond traditional categories by developing ready-to-drink beverages, plant-based protein and meal replacement products.
🧪 Whey is altering the price balance in the dairy market
Investments in cheese and whey processing are boosting the role of protein, whilst putting pressure on butter prices.
📉 Savencia’s profits fell sharply in 2025
Due to market volatility and currency factors, the company’s profits fell, although the cheese segment remained stable.
🇳🇱 The Netherlands is cutting back on milk production for environmental reasons
The new programme provides for a reduction in the cow herd, which could affect the EU’s milk supply balance in the long term.
