Irish Grain Prices Crucial to Dairy and Beef Industries
Irish grain prices are not just an issue for tillage farmers, but also for the dairy and beef industries that rely on them. The Irish Grain Growers Group (IGGG) says that Irish grain is a vital component of the feed chain, with average concentrate feed use on Irish dairy farms increasing by 11% in 2024 to 1,358kg per cow.
According to Teagasc's national farm survey, milk production remained broadly similar during this time, while milk solids per cow increased slightly. Concentrate feeding accounts for up to 20% of milk production on Irish dairy farms and can even be higher in some instances.
The IGGG also points out that finishing cattle require a significant amount of concentrate feed, with guidance from Teagasc showing that they need 5kg to 7kg per day. The group notes that most feedstuffs used nationally are imported, including GMOs banned from being grown in the EU.
The IGGG argues that protecting Ireland's grass-fed credentials is increasingly important as concentrate feeding increases. They highlight Bord Bia's grass-fed verified beef standard, which requires at least 90% of feed consumed to be grass or grass forage.