Drought hits UK dairy sector: less milk and tighter feed supplies

A record-hot and dry summer hit the UK dairy sector on two fronts, reducing milk output and weakening feed availability. Between May and August 2026, farmers produced more than 240 mln litres less milk than expected, with producer losses estimated at over £83 mln.

On 87 days during the summer, milk deliveries fell further below expected levels than on the corresponding date in any year between 2008 and 2025. The situation was particularly difficult in July and August, when production remained unusually weak almost every day.

The drought also sharply reduced pasture growth. As of September 4, grass growth stood at only 86% of the 2019–2024 average, while the forage deficit was estimated to be equivalent to enough feed for the national cattle herd for around two months.

Because of the lack of grass, some farms were forced to switch to winter rations during the summer and start using hay and silage stocks earlier than planned. This is increasing feeding and housing costs and could add further pressure to milk production costs over the winter.

Feed shortages are already affecting herd management: cull cow throughput has increased by 16%, while prices have fallen by almost 10%. Continued feed shortages and high costs could force farmers to reduce herd sizes, creating further risks for milk production next season.

Tags: UK, Milk, drought, compound feed, dairy product