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Articles by Rena Ma
Promised Land Dairy and PEEPS® Collaborate for a New Easter Treat
Dallas, Texas - This Easter, children and parents alike have something new to look forward to in their colorful baskets. Promised Land Dairy, known for its creamy and rich milk flavors, has partnered with PEEPS® to introduce PEEPS® Sweet Marshmallow Milk, a limited-time offering available through April 20 in select grocers nationwide.
A Bitter Pause: Nestlé Shutters Argentine Factory Amid Economic Strains (UPD)
A Tactical Shutdown or a Strategic Retrenchment? Officially, Nestlé frames the decision as a necessary step to manage stock levels, emphasizing that the shutdown will coincide with planned maintenance, originally scheduled for July. But the Sindicato de Trabajadores de la Industria de la Alimentación (STIA), Argentina's food industry union, sees it differently. The closure, they argue, is an imposition rather than a consensus-driven measure.
Bird Flu Spreads in U.S. Cattle as Key States Exclude Themselves from Federal Milk Testing
Introduction Three of America’s leading milk-producing states are currently not involved in federal surveillance testing for bird flu, despite a new variant emerging in dairy cattle. This omission has raised alarms among public health experts who perceive it as a critical gap in efforts to monitor and control the virus’s spread.
Russia’s Dairy Industry Shows Steady Growth: Production and Processing on the Rise
Production Figures: Upward Momentum Drinking milk production grew by 5%, reaching 6.1 million tonnes compared to 2023.
Fonterra's $22 Million Investment to Boost Waitoa Plant Cream Production
Fonterra has announced a significant investment of $22 million into its Waitoa plant, aimed at expanding its cream production capabilities. This investment is expected to increase the plant's ultra-high temperature (UHT) cream processing capacity by up to 30,000 metric tonnes annually, creating four new roles at the facility. The Waitoa site will now take over the production of Anchor UHT cream, previously managed at its Takanini location.
The Dairy Sector in Argentina: Opportunities for Growth and Competitiveness
Recent debates within Argentina's dairy sector suggest that the industry is on a promising track. According to a report from La Nación, these discussions, though sometimes unnecessary, reflect a healthy direction for the sector. The past year saw a decline in milk production, yet the recovery has been significant, largely due to the concerted efforts of producers, industry support, and favorable governmental policies.
Hatsun Agro Product commits further investment in Milk Mantra Dairy
Source: DairyNews.today 4 EN 中文 DE FR عربى Investment Announcement by Hatsun Agro Hatsun Agro Product (HAP), a leading dairy company, has officially completed the acquisition of an additional 2418 equity shares of Milk Mantra Dairy. This investment, which stands at Rs 10 lakh, marks a continued financial commitment to the Target Company, reinforcing HAP's dominant position in the industry.
Record-Breaking Sales at Livestock Auctions: From Sheepdogs to Dairy Cattle
A standout moment at the Lockerbie sale of North Country Cheviot females saw the Park champion, a three-crop ewe in-lamb with triplets from J. Thomson, fetch a stunning £4,000. The buyer, Messrs Tapson from Crieff, secured this top show ewe. Other notable sales included a two-crop ewe from the same flock, sold for £2,600 to Messrs Harrison, Holmrook, Cumbria, and a gimmer by Mowhaugh Constricter from Bowmont Farming's Attonburn flock, Yetholm, which attained £2,200.
British Dairy Exporters Eye Halal Certification Ahead of Middle Eastern Trade Show
Halal export requirements for British dairy products have become a focal point ahead of the upcoming Gulfood trade show in Dubai, set for February 17-21. A recent webinar, organized by the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB), aimed to equip British exporters with essential knowledge about halal certification for markets in the Middle East.
The Colombian Dairy Sector Forecasts Recovery by 2025 but Faces Structural Challenges
The Colombian dairy sector, collecting over 3.3 billion liters of raw milk in 2024, shows signs of improvement as the industry looks towards 2025. Consumption recovered by a slight 0.9% in comparison to 2023, indicating a promising year ahead. However, the sector continues to face significant challenges requiring structural changes to ensure growth and stability.
Family-Run Dairy Farm Hosts Net Zero Workshop to Showcase Sustainability Efforts
A family-run dairy farm, Sychpant Farm in Cardigan, is making headlines for its significant strides in reducing its carbon footprint. The farm is set to host a "Net Zero Workshop" on February 20, in collaboration with Farming Connect, to share its experiences and engage in wider discussions on reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The farm, managed by farmers Marc and Lucy Allison, has implemented a variety of strategies to reduce carbon emissions.
Bolivia to Begin Exporting Dairy Products to Chile by March
In a groundbreaking development, Bolivia is prepared to commence the exportation of fluid milk and dairy derivatives such as yogurt and cheese to neighboring Chile, beginning in March 2025. This initiative follows the acquisition of the Exempt Resolution 2965, acknowledging Bolivia as a country free of foot-and-mouth disease both with and without vaccination.
Fonterra Withdraws '100% Grass-Fed' Label Amid Greenpeace Legal Pressure
Legal Challenge from Greenpeace Greenpeace Aotearoa has brought to light new legal documents from Fonterra Brands, revealing that the dairy giant has withdrawn labels from its Anchor butter packaging. These labels had previously asserted that Fonterra's dairy cows were '100% New Zealand grass-fed'. Greenpeace claims the withdrawal marks an admission of guilt as a lawsuit looms.
Newley Farm Achieves Milestone of 700 Cows After Decade of Expansion
Will Venn, alongside his family, has reached a significant milestone at Newley Farm near Taunton, Somerset. Over the past decade, the Venn family embarked on an ambitious expansion programme that has culminated in reaching their target of 700 cows. This achievement is marked by a herd consisting predominantly of 550 Holsteins, which underscores the farm's commitment to dairy excellence.
U.S. Championship Cheese Contest Reveals Elite Judging Team for 2025
The Wisconsin Cheese Makers Association (WCMA), host of the 2025 United States Championship Cheese Contest®, has unveiled the distinguished panel of dairy industry experts who will assess this year's entries. Scheduled for March 4-6 at the Resch Expo in Green Bay, Wisconsin, the event will showcase the finest dairy products from across the nation. This year's judging team features 38 elite cheese graders, buyers, and dairy science professionals from 15 states.
Russia Expands Dairy Trade in 2024 Amid Growing Production and Export Markets
Belarus continued to dominate Russia’s dairy imports, supplying 94% of the total volume. Other key contributors included Kazakhstan (1.8%) and Azerbaijan (1.2%), followed by smaller volumes from Argentina (1%), Uruguay, Serbia, and Iran (each supplying less than 1%).
Anthrax and Malnutrition Threaten Nigeria's Dairy and Meat Production
Abuja, Nigeria - Nigeria's ambitions to lead Africa in milk production and achieve meat sufficiency are under significant threat due to recent anthrax outbreaks and widespread cattle malnutrition. The outbreak of anthrax, a zoonotic disease caused by the bacterium Bacillus anthracis, has resulted in the deaths of over 50 cows in Zamfara State. This, combined with the poor nutritional status of cattle from extensive treks in search of food and water, jeopardizes the country's milk and meat supply.
Historic Drops in Argentine Consumption: Milk, Beef, and Yerba Mate
Alarming Decline in Dairy and Meat Consumption in Argentina A report from February 2025 by the foundations "Innovation with Inclusion" and "Encuentro" has revealed stark data on the consumption patterns of Argentinians, particularly in daily staples like milk, beef, and yerba mate. According to the study accessible to Ámbito, 2024 saw the lowest per capita milk consumption in 34 years. To find a comparable drop in consumption, one would have to go back to 1990.
Meath Dairy Farmer Transitions to Goat Milking: A Taste of Success
Meath, Ireland - In a bold move that has redefined his farming legacy, Michael Finegan took a leap of faith from traditional dairy farming to goat milking, establishing the now-thriving Boyne Valley Farmhouse Cheese in Co Meath. Despite the substantial initial investment, the farm's products have garnered national and international acclaim. Having honed his skills on dairy farms in New Zealand, Finegan returned to Ireland with a vision.
Arla Faces Criticism Over Sustainability Efforts
Arla, the multinational dairy giant, is facing intense criticism from climate activists who claim the company is misleading consumers with unrealistic sustainability claims. According to a new report published by Changing Markets Foundation and Greenpeace Nordic, Arla is accused of failing to take significant actions to reduce its emissions effectively.
Global Food Price Index: Moderation Continues Amid Market Volatility
Source: DairyNews.today 16 EN 中文 DE FR عربى Cereals: The cereal price index rose by 0.3% in the past month, reaching 111.7 points, though it remains 6.9% lower than in January 2024. Wheat export prices were largely stable, while corn prices increased due to seasonal supply shortages and adverse weather conditions in Argentina. Additionally, revised projections indicate lower corn production and stock levels in the U.S., further contributing to price pressures.
Belarus Exports of Dairy Products to Pakistan Triple in 2024
MINSK, 12 February - Belarusian companies achieved a remarkable threefold increase in the export of dairy products including skimmed milk powder and whey to Pakistan in 2024, according to the latest discussions between Belarusian Deputy Agriculture and Food Minister Vadim Shagoyko and Pakistan's Federal Minister of Commerce Jam Kamal Khan. The discussions underscored Pakistan's interest in enhancing bilateral cooperation in agriculture and the agro-industrial complex.
Arla Foods Pioneers Carbon Reduction with New Electric Boiler
Arla Foods Ingredients has taken a major step forward in its carbon reduction efforts by installing a new electric boiler at its largest production site. The innovative boiler, located at Danmark Protein’s whey processing facility in Videbaek, Denmark, is projected to decrease annual CO2e emissions by approximately 3,500 tonnes once fully operational. Arla Foods Ingredients continues to transition from gas to renewable electricity as part of its ambitious sustainability strategy.
H&N (former Russian Danone) Expands Production with New Cottage Cheese Line
The modernization project began in November 2023, with the first test batch of the 5% fat cottage cheese in 320-gram packages produced in December. Going forward, the company plans to expand the range by introducing a 9% fat version and larger 480-gram family-sized packs. Full-scale industrial production of cottage cheese at the Saran Dairy Plant commenced in mid-January 2024. Once operating at full capacity, the facility is expected to produce up to 10.5 tons of cottage cheese per day.
Major Agri-Brands Urge EU to Tackle Methane Emissions in Dairy
In a significant development for the agricultural sector, the Environmental Defense Fund (EDF), alongside global food giants Danone and Bel Group, has called on the European Commission to prioritize mitigating methane emissions from the dairy industry. This appeal, made through an open letter to European Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Christophe Hansen, underscores the urgency of integrating methane reduction strategies into the Commission’s forthcoming Vision for Agriculture and Food.
Impact of the Armed Conflict in Catatumbo on Dairy and Meat Consumption
Impact of the Armed Conflict in Catatumbo The ongoing armed conflict in the Catatumbo region has resulted in substantial disruptions in the consumption of essential food items such as meat and milk. Over the span of more than 20 days, approximately 50,000 residents have been forced to flee their homes. This mass displacement has led to a dramatic decrease in local food consumption, with estimates suggesting a reduction of around 47 tons of meat and 410,000 liters of milk.
Fonterra's Australian Milk Supplies Surge Amid Favorable Conditions
In a notable development within the dairy industry, Fonterra’s Australian milk intake has increased significantly. The company reported a 1.5% rise in its milk supplies for December, amassing a total of 11.0 million kg of milk solids. The growth is attributed to strong production levels in Northern Victoria, where favorable conditions such as ample feed and irrigation water availability have persisted.
Trump’s Purge of Federal Inspectors Sparks Controversy Amid USDA Turmoil
Source: DairyNews.today 15 EN 中文 DE FR عربى Sources indicate that Fong intended to remain in her position, arguing that her dismissal did not comply with federal law. In an internal email sent to colleagues on Saturday, January 25, she wrote that the Inspector General Council on Integrity and Efficiency deemed the termination notice legally invalid.
Milk Production in Galicia Sees Notable Increase in 2024
Overview of Milk Production in 2024 The Spanish Agricultural Guarantee Fund (FEGA) has released its report for December 2024, highlighting significant increases in milk production compared to 2023. Production in Galicia alone saw a substantial 2.34% rise, affirming its status as a leading region. Price Increase and Regional Comparison With production on the rise, milk prices have followed suit. The average price in Spain reached 0.494 euros per liter.
Bird Flu in Nevada Dairy Worker: A New Strain and Rising Concerns
The infected farm worker, who had direct contact with affected livestock in Churchill County, experienced mild symptoms, including eye redness and irritation, and has since recovered without hospitalization. This marks the first recorded human infection linked to cattle rather than poultry, highlighting a worrying shift in the virus’s transmission pathways.
Edeka Expands Dairy Portfolio with Uckermärker Milch Acquisition
According to Edeka, all 110 employees of Uckermärker Milch will retain their positions, ensuring continuity in operations. The retailer emphasized that this acquisition secures the future of one of the last independent dairy plants in northeastern Germany. The Uckermärker Milch dairy plant has a history dating back to 1889, with its current structure established in 1992.
Ghee Scandal: Tirupati's Sacred Laddu Ingredient Under Scrutiny
Background of the Controversy The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI)-led Special Investigation Team (SIT) has unraveled a scandal involving a Tamil Nadu-based dairy, AR Dairy Pvt. Ltd., which stands accused of supplying adulterated ghee to the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD). This ghee is a vital ingredient in preparing the sacred laddu prasadam offered at the temple.
American Dairy Product Gains Momentum in China
The U.S. dairy industry has tapped into the Chinese market with a by-product known as whey, which continues to grow in popularity. As the leading global supplier of high-protein milk whey, known as WPC80+, the United States exported approximately 307,000 metric tons to China in 2023. Jaime Castaneda, executive vice president for policy development and strategy of the National Milk Producers Federation, emphasized the significance of China as a major export market.
Raglan Dairy Reclaims Contract with Monmouthshire County Council
Raglan Dairy Triumphs in Contract Reinstatement Following a public outcry, Raglan Dairy has successfully recontracted with Monmouthshire County Council to supply milk and dairy products to local services, including schools. The triumph followed a retendering process at the end of the previous year, which initially saw the contract awarded to a national competitor, Totally Welsh.
Modern Techniques to Enhance Dairy Cow Productivity
In recent decades, understanding the behavior of dairy cows has become a significant topic of scientific research in dairy production. A new study conducted by researchers in Nottingham, UK, highlights the importance of environmental enrichment for improving the welfare of dairy cows housed in intensive systems. Housing dairy cattle in barns offers numerous advantages such as protection from weather extremes, optimized feeding, and ease of health monitoring.
Hatsun Agro Product Nears Complete Acquisition of Milk Mantra Dairy
Hatsun Agro Product (HAP) announced the completion of its acquisition of an additional 2,418 equity shares of Milk Mantra Dairy. This latest purchase involved the payment of Rs. 10 lakh to a shareholder of the target company as part of the Share Purchase Agreement (SPA). With this acquisition, HAP has now accumulated a total of 30,92,964 equity shares and 16,06,372 compulsorily convertible preference shares, with each share valued at Rs. 10.
Dairy Farm Biosafety: New Technologies for Infection Control
Dairy Farm Biosafety: New Technologies for Infection Control Biosafety in dairy farming has emerged as a pivotal component of modern agriculture, aimed at combating infectious diseases that can impair animal health and milk output. To address these challenges, the integration of advanced infection control technologies is now paramount. Biosafety initiatives focus on preventing and controlling infectious diseases such as mastitis and bovine respiratory infections.
Vaccine Hope for Dairy Scourge: Biovet, ICAR Develop Cure to Curb Lumpy Skin Disease in Cattle
Biolumpivaxin: A New Hope for India's Dairy Industry India's Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation has approved Biolumpivaxin, a new vaccine for cattle and buffaloes against lumpy skin disease (LSD). Developed jointly by Biovet and the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), Biolumpivaxin is designed not only to protect against LSD but also to distinguish between infected and vaccinated animals using the DIVA (differentiation of infected from vaccinated animals) markers.
Farm Tech Executives Call for Extension on GMO Bill Submission Period in New Zealand
An open letter from executives of the farm technology company Hyprecision has expressed strong criticism regarding the New Zealand government's decision to set the submission period for a controversial bill over the Christmas and holiday period. The executives, Greenberg and Henne, argue that this timing "reeks of secrecy," and claim it undermines the ability of farmers to provide informed feedback on a proposal that could significantly impact the dairy industry.
Dairy Price Index Ends Year Mostly Positive Despite December Dips
Chile's Dairy Sector Shows Resilience in 2024 The Dairy Price Index (DPI) for December 2024 exhibited a general decline in prices across most dairy products. However, the annual trend for 2024 wrapped up on a predominantly positive note, as indicated by the data recently published by the National Institute of Statistics (INE) through the National Federation of Dairy Producers (Fedeleche).
Malaysian Palm Oil Futures Extend Gains Amid Strength in Rival Edible Oils
Source: DairyNews.today 10 EN 中文 DE FR عربى The benchmark palm oil contract for April delivery on the Bursa Malaysia Derivatives Exchange rose 75 ringgit (1.7%), reaching 4,478 ringgit ($1,009.24) per metric ton in early trade. This marked the third straight session of gains, reinforcing bullish momentum in the market. Strength in Rival Oils: Dalian’s most-active soyoil contract climbed 2.27%, while palm oil futures on the exchange advanced 2.11%.
Westpac Elevates Farmgate Milk Forecast Amid Global Price Resilience
Source: DairyNews.today 21 EN 中文 DE FR عربى Westpac Adjusts Forecast Upwards Westpac has revised its farmgate milk price forecast for the current season from $10.00 to $10.30. The adjustment highlights the resilience of global dairy market prices and a concurrent decline in the New Zealand dollar’s value. Economic Insights Senior economist Michael Gordon explained that global dairy prices have maintained stability, contrary to earlier expectations of a gradual price decline.
Wisconsin Dairy Farmers Fear Impact of Trump's Deportation Plans
Wisconsin dairy farmers are increasingly alarmed by the implications of former President Donald Trump\'s immigration and mass deportation strategies on the dairy industry, a sector heavily dependent on foreign labor. John Rosenow, a dairy farmer in Waumandee, is one such voice of concern. He has underscored the critical role immigrant labor plays in sustaining daily operations and providing products like milk, cheese, butter, and ice cream.
Los Ríos Region Declared Provisionally Free of Brucellosis
In a breakthrough for Chile's agricultural sector, the Los Ríos region has been declared provisionally free of brucellosis, a bacterial infection that jeopardizes both animal and human health. This marks a significant victory for local cattle producers. Brucellosis: A Threat to Health Brucellosis is caused by the bacterium Brucella abortus, primarily affecting reproductive-age female cattle, leading to abortions.
Conaprole Secures Strategic Agreement with China's Leading Dairy Industry
La Cooperativa Nacional de Productores de Leche (Conaprole) recently inked a landmark agreement with Yili, the preeminent dairy enterprise in China and Asia, strategically aligning the Uruguayan cooperative with one of the global leaders in the dairy sector. Significance of the Agreement This collaboration, formalized during the Agro en Punta event, is poised to foster technical exchanges focusing on sustainable practices and quality production.
Fonterra's Remarkable P/E Ratio Sparks Investor Interest
Fonterra's P/E Ratio Stands Out Fonterra Co-operative Group Limited (NZSE:FCG) has captured the attention of investors with its price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio of 6.2x. This figure appears particularly attractive against the backdrop of New Zealand's market, where over half of companies boast P/E ratios exceeding 21x, and some even higher than 36x. Analyzing Investor Sentiment Despite its attractive P/E ratio, Fonterra's receding earnings might serve as a cautionary note.
China Alters Dairy Import Policy Amid Rising Consumer Demand
The Chinese dairy market is experiencing significant changes due to an increase in consumer purchasing power. In 2024, there was a notable rise in the import of certain dairy products like cream and butter, further driven by decreased average monthly prices of imported milk equivalents, falling from $59.78 per 100 kg in October to $48.48 in December. However, throughout the year, China's overall dairy imports slowed by 10%.
Argentina’s Dairy Industry: A Year of Conflict, Consolidation, and Global Interest
The dairy industry in Argentina is experiencing a year of significant shifts and transformations. Notable in these developments is the ongoing saga between industry giants ARCOR and Mastellone, with analysts dubbing it 'La guerra de los Roses.' This conflict promises to bring major changes to the market dynamics, and stakeholders are preparing for an active year ahead.
Big Three U.S. Banks Face Billions in Climate-Related Financial Risks From Livestock Investments
Driven by climate-related disruptions, America’s largest banks face financial risks of up to $9.3 billion from their investment in livestock agriculture. By lending money to some of the world's biggest meat and dairy companies, US banks aren't just hurting the planet, but also their bottom lines.
Fonterra Australian Milk Supplies See Significant Growth
In a notable development within the dairy industry, Fonterra's Australian milk intake has increased significantly. The company reported a 1.5% rise in its milk supplies for December, amassing a total of 11.0 million kg of milk solids. The growth is attributed to strong production levels in Northern Victoria, where favorable conditions such as ample feed and irrigation water availability have persisted.
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