The latest figures from the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB) have revealed total Great British animal feed produce to be at its lowest level since 2016/17.
The figures, which included integrated poultry units (IPUs), were down 1.9% on the year.
While the majority of animal feed categories are showing year-on-year declines, the key drivers of a fall in overall production are the pig, sheep and poultry compounders (excluding IPU) sectors.
This season to date (July-October), pig feed production totalled 617.2Kt, down 6.3% (or 41.2Kt) on year earlier levels.
Key losses were seen in link/early grower feed (-14.6Kt) and pig finishing compounds (-26.7Kt).
Sector demand
AHDB said “lacklustre demand” from the sector is likely linked to expectations of an ongoing high cost of production.
“As a result, anecdotal reports suggest that despite contractions last season, it’s unlikely the pig herd will see much expansion this marketing year keeping the demand outlook slow,” the board said,
“For sheep, this season to date (July-October), feed production is down 17.1% or 28Kt on the year.
“For the first quarter of the season at least, demand for sheep feed is largely made up of compounds for growing and finishing sheep.”
From July to October, production of compounds for this group was down 21.8Kt. However, looking ahead, AHDB said focus will turn to demand of blends and compounds for breeding sheep, which so far is down 6.1Kt on the year.
As it stands, AHDB said the poultry sector looks the most optimistic in terms of year-on-year recovery for feed demand.
“Total poultry feed production (including IPU) is up 1% or 21.1Kt so far this season, driven by increased production by IPU,” AHDB said.
“However, poultry feed produced by compounders (excl. IPU) was down 2% or 32.4Kt this season to date compared to 2022/23.
“Of course, avian flu remains a key watchpoint in the sector, and should cases worsen in line with last season, it’s likely feed demand will be impacted.”
