GMO-free soybeans are becoming increasingly popular, which is good news for European livestock farming. Currently, limited supply keeps prices high, but the high prices have attracted the attention of arable farmers. Boerenbusiness outlines the market situation for GMO-free soybeans and meal.
The price of GMO-free soy meal in Northern Germany is almost €500 per tonne. GM-free soybean meal (with 44% protein) costs €200 per tonne more in Northern Germany than regular soybean meal from South America. In northern Italy, where by far the most soybeans are grown in Europe, GMO-free soybean meal costs about €50 per tonne less than in northern Germany. Prices from the Balkan countries are not known, but the supply of GMO-free soybeans is also increasing in Southeastern Europe.
The Danube Soy Organization, which established its office in Vienna, Austria, several years ago, strengthened its collaboration with GMO-free grower organizations in Serbia, Bulgaria and Romania this spring. In these countries, before joining the European Union (EU), soy cultivation using genetically modified varieties was common. By the way, Hungary is already a member of the Danube Soya Organization, which guarantees the certification of GM-free soya bean cultivation.
The Netherlands has the wind behind it
In the Netherlands, the cultivation of Dutch soy is having a tailwind this season. Also thanks to Hurricane Ophelia, which provided us with exceptionally warm and dry weather in the crucial final phase of the harvest, which increases the chance of a financially favorable result for the growers. Less drying costs and a higher protein percentage.
Agrifirm plant reports record yields of 4,5 tons of soy and a protein percentage of 42%. With a yield of €500 per tonne of soybeans, the cultivation will win this year over the grain balance. In addition, soy has the advantage that it adds nitrogen to the soil.
GM-free milk
Due to the introduction of GM-free milk in the Netherlands by FrieslandCampina, the demand for GMO-free soy meal is increasing. The dairy from the dairy farms participating in the FrieslandCampina pilot is largely intended for the German market. There, GM-free food is a fast-growing market segment.
The supermarket chain NettoMarken will also sell pork in Germany under the label 'Ohne Gentechnik'. In Denmark, dairy giant Arla only sells GMO-free drinking milk in supermarkets.