December 9, 2023

United Kingdom sees decline in feed production to lowest levels since 2016/17

The United Kingdom's Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB) recently released figures indicating a notable 1.9% year-on-year decrease in total animal feed production in the UK, marking its lowest level since the 2016/17 season, Agriland reported.

Despite trends varying across animal feed categories, the swine, sheep, and poultry compounders (excluding integrated poultry unit) sectors were the most significant contributors to the overall decline.

Swine feed production, covering the period from July to October, reached 617.2Kt, indicating a 6.3% decline compared to the previous year. Key losses were observed in link/early grower feed (-14.6Kt) and swine finishing compounds (-26.7Kt). AHDB attributes the decrease to lacklustre demand, likely influenced by expectations of a sustained high cost of production. Anecdotal reports suggest a cautious outlook for the swine herd expansion this marketing year.

In contrast, the poultry sector presents a more optimistic outlook for feed demand recovery. Total poultry feed production, including integrated poultry units, increased by 1% or 21.1Kt. However, poultry feed produced by compounders (excluding IPU) experienced a 2% decline or 32.4Kt during the current season, compared to 2022/23. AHDB notes the potential impact of avian flu on feed demand, emphasising the need for vigilance should cases worsen, similar to the previous season.

-      Agriland