March 1, 2018

Irish milk intake up 1.5% in January

Irish domestic milk intake by creameries and pasteurisers in January increased 1.5% to 150.9 million litres, compared with January 2017's 148.7 million litres, according to the Central Statistics Office (CSO).

Milk intake refers to whole milk bought by creameries and pasteurisers from domestic producers through collection depots and separating stations. It includes whole milk obtained from herds owned by the creameries and pasteurisers. The fat content of the whole milk is also collected.

Whole milk sales in January increased 5.8% to 27.8 million litres from 26.2 million litres in January 2017.

Total milk sold for human consumption in January increased 2.8 % to 45.6 million litres compared with January 2017 consumption.

Butter production in January was up 49.5 % to 7,760 tonnes.