How fertilizer is hurting the pig sector

Not the lack of pigs, but the lack of CO₂ is becoming a problem in the UK. Both beer manufacturers and pig slaughterers are sounding the alarm because the gas is running out and that could have major consequences. The problem appears to have its source in the production of fertilizers.

Europeans may have to make do with less meat on the barbecue this summer, according to the AP (Associated Press). This is due to a shortage of CO₂† The beer producers previously warned that they would have to cut production, but at the end of June Scotland's largest pig slaughterhouse (due to a shortage of CO₂) to reduce the number of slaughters.

Fertilizer under pressure
The shortage of CO₂ is a result of the low production of ammonium nitrate. Less of this is usually produced in the summer, but an accumulation of problems has reduced production (even) further. CO₂ is a by-product of this sector, so it does not help that the market for this fertilizer is under pressure.

In the UK, the gas is the first to go to hospitals and fire brigades. What is then left goes to other users. These are, for example, the food industry and slaughterhouses. Since it is a by-product, it is also uncertain how much is available each week.

Is biogas the solution?
In many cases, slaughterhouses were able to make the switch to electrical stunning, but those who fully use CO2 stunning techniques were forced to take other measures. The tight supply remains a concern. However, since it is also a by-product of biogas production, a solution may still be sought.

Herman van den Pol

Herma van den Pol has been with us since 2011 Boerenbusiness and has developed over the years into a market expert Milk & Feed. In addition, she can be seen weekly in the market flash about the dairy market.

h.vandenpol@boerenbusiness. Nl

© DCA Market Intelligence. This market information is subject to copyright. It is not permitted to reproduce, distribute, disseminate or make the content available to third parties for compensation, in any form, without the express written permission of DCA Market Intelligence.