Conversion Solution To Feed Grain Shortages
UK - The UK does not produce sufficient organic grain (cereals and pulses) to supply the needs of organic livestock producers and millers and has to rely on imports to make up the shortfall.
5 June 2007
2 minute read
A continuing worldwide shortage of organic grain forced prices up to an all-time high this spring, with wheat reportedly fetching in the region of £300 per tonne. Prices of £190 to £200 per tonne for wheat are expected at harvest 2007. This situation is likely to continue unless substantial arable areas are converted to organic farming.
Caroline Bayliss, Scottish Agriculture College (SAC) organic market link co-ordinator, has calculated that an additional 97,000 hectares of rotational land needs to be converted in the UK in order to meet the shortfall in organic grain for feed and milling.
The increased growth in demand for feed grain has arisen primarily as a result of increased consumer demand for organic milk, pork and poultry products. Also, there is a developing market for pulses and wheat in organic fish production.
As a result of these market signals, SAC organic advisers are encouraging non-organic arable producers to consider converting to organic production. The Scottish Rural development Programme funding situation is becoming clearer and it is hoped that organic aid will be available again before the end of 2007.
Source: The Herald
