EU produces more protein than suggested

The Dutch feed industry is currently facing major challenges, as became apparent on Wednesday 22 May at the Nevedi conference on climate, cycles and the challenges that this poses. At the conference it was stated, among other things, that Europe already produces much more protein than is often suggested in the media.

"The media regularly writes that Europe is only 5% self-sufficient in the protein requirement for our animal feed. This is not correct," says Karel van Bommel, expert national detaché at the European Commission. Van Bommel states that 80% of the protein requirement is produced in Europe.

When it comes to oilseeds, things are a little different. About 26% of the need of 20,7 million tons is produced in Europe. "This share is growing strongly," says Van Bommel. He also stated that the acreage of protein crops in Europe is growing strongly and is at a tipping point. "However, there are still many challenges when it comes to growing these crops."

More proteins from Europe
The figures therefore show that more and more proteins come from Europe. It is striking that, for example, it is clear from the circular vision of Minister Carola Schouten (Agriculture, Nature and Food Quality) that this share must be increased even further. However, the question is whether using only European raw materials is positive for the climate. 

Theun Vellinga, researcher at Wageningen University, elaborated on this question. According to him, there are various reasons why European raw materials are considered important. "It feels good to produce close to home. You can also keep a closer eye on it and Europe doesn't want to be too dependent on Latin America."

Vellinga did, however, have reservations about the suggestion that local protein cultivation is always the solution. "You would expect crops to be grown in a location where they have a high yield per hectare and a lower CO₂have a footprint. These higher yields are not always achieved close to home."

'Produce in the best location'
Henk Flipsen, the director of Nevedi, says in a reaction that the Dutch animal feed industry prefers to be as dependent as possible on raw materials from outside Europe. "However, you have to produce where it is best. This applies as close as possible, but as far as possible."

Anne-Jan Doorn

Anne Jan Doorn is an arable expert at Boerenbusiness. He writes about the various arable farming markets and also focuses on the land and energy market.

aj.doorn@boerenbusiness. Nl

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