Warnings of organic milk shortage met with appeal for caution

Predictions of a looming organic milk "crisis" have been met with caution by the Soil Association.

This follows recent warnings from Rachel's Organic and the Organic Milk Suppliers Co-operative of a supply shortage this autumn and winter as the seasonal slow-down in milk production occurs.

Phil Stocker, head of food and farming at the Soil Association said:

"Increasing demand for organic milk highlights the public's growing interest in the benefits of organic produce and this is undoubtedly great news for organic milk producers.

"But while we acknowledge that there may be short-term supply problems this winter, the size of the organic dairy market means that a large proportion of the shortfall could be met from within existing production capacity. Farm gate prices will now clearly need to reflect the real costs of production in order to ensure that demands are met."

While there will be some opportunities for new entrants, Phil Stocker warned that this should be approached with caution and that any market expansion must be managed carefully:

"Many organic dairy farms have not sold milk as organic until recently and many of them would have loved to have expanded before now, given the opportunity. We hope that much of the shortfall will be quickly met by those existing organic producers who have been on slow-track conversion programmes, while others can now expand their productions levels once again to meet demand.

"New producers are urged to consider any move to organic production extremely carefully, and should contact an organic milk group before making any final decision to convert."