Fluctuations in the dairy market: are you following along?

The dairy market is in full swing. While we saw milk prices rise for months in a row, we're now seeing a sharp decline due to lower butter prices and high supply on the dairy market. For you as a dairy farmer, this means a decrease in your feed profit and margin per cow. So the question isn't whether to make adjustments, but when and how to do so most effectively.

For us at Vitalvé, that's the perfect time to stay focused on feed profit. You can't control the milk price, but you can control your ration. By feeding smartly, making optimal use of your roughage, and staying critical of by-products and raw materials, you keep a handle on your returns. With our Vital Monitor we keep a clear overview of this and we can also compare customers with each other. 

Analysts expect European milk production to rise again towards 2026. This offers opportunities, but also risks. It's all about striking the right balance between production, cost price, and animal health.

How does Vitalvé adapt its advice to market influences?
A ration is more than a nutritional plan; it's your steering wheel for performance. That's why at Vitalvé, we look at market trends as well as what's happening in the barn.

• Be critical in the choice of by-products and raw materials
  Protein-containing raw materials have seen a sharp decline in price over the past six months. Protein-containing by-products such as brewers' grains are currently priced steeply compared to protein-containing raw materials, making them less favorable for the overall balance sheet. 
• Consider buying commodities early to ensure certainty heading into the new year
• Time to recalculate
  Milk prices are under pressure. It's especially important to calculate accurately now. Resistant fat was a smart choice in recent months. But is that still the case? Do you still have stock? Feel free to add to it. Is your stock depleted? Then reassess whether it's still worthwhile at the current milk price.
• Many companies have had to deal with a calving peak in recent months
  The result is a fresh livestock population. You should also consider this in your choices. Cutting back on energy now, for example, is unwise, as this can be detrimental to fertility, among other things. 

Don't panic, but make conscious adjustments
A shift in market sentiment doesn't mean you have to immediately overhaul your entire ration. It requires conscious choices: calculating scenarios, knowing the controls, and pivoting in time. Especially now, it's important to keep a handle on feed profit, and you'll keep a handle on your margins. Need help? Our advisors We are happy to think along with you.