June 10, 2009
Europe feed output down slightly in 2008
European compound feed output decreased 0.4 percent in 2008, mainly due to decreased grain quotas, lower milk prices, the pig cycle and the financial crisis, according to data released by the European Feed Manufacturers' Federation (FEFAC).
Figures showed that feed production for the EU reached 150.6 million tonnes, down from 151.2 million tonnes in 2007.
The decrease in market quotations for grains during the second half of 2008 was the result of farmers using them on the farm rather than putting them on the market. The sharp decline of milk prices has also triggered a reduction of feed demand, and the financial crisis forced consumers to move to less expensive animal proteins.
The pig production cycle also went downhill, as pig producers were unable to pass the higher feed costs in 2007 and beginning of 2008 to consumers amid financial difficulties.
As a result, the demand for pig and cattle feed fell 1.4 percent and two percent, respectively, while poultry feed demand grew two percent.
The decrease in pig feed output affected mostly Mediterreanean countries and Denmark, while the Benelux and Germany recorded a positive development in 2008.
Spain recorded a nine-percent decrease in compound feed production due to lower demand for cattle feed, while the Netherlands and Germany registered growth of six percent and 2.5 percent, respectively.