Cattle feed drives feed production in France
French animal feed production saw a modest rise in 2025, reaching 18.88 million tonnes, which is a 1.1% increase over the previous year, according to SNIA. Growth was largely driven by increased demand for cattle feed, even as the industry faced animal disease outbreaks and challenges in the pig sector. The growth in the national […]
In 2025, French animal feed production experienced a modest increase, reaching 18.88 million tonnes, an uplift of 1.1% compared to the previous year, according to data from the Syndicat National des Industries Agricoles (SNIA). This growth, though modest, marked a positive development for the sector, which has been grappling with various challenges, including outbreaks of animal diseases and difficulties in the pig sector.
The primary driver behind this increase was the rising demand for cattle feed. The French cattle industry has been expanding in recent years, with farmers and producers investing in larger herds and more efficient farming practices. This expansion has created a greater need for high-quality feed to support the growth of cattle, which in turn has spurred production. Additionally, the shift towards more sustainable farming practices has encouraged the use of locally sourced feed ingredients, further boosting domestic production.
However, the growth in animal feed production was not without its challenges. The industry faced significant setbacks due to outbreaks of animal diseases, such as bovine respiratory disease and swine fever. These diseases have led to reduced productivity, increased costs for farmers, and stricter regulations on animal movement and trade. Despite these hurdles, the sector has managed to adapt by investing in research and development to create more resilient strains of animals and implementing better disease management protocols.
Another area of concern for the French animal feed industry has been the challenges in the pig sector. The sector has been struggling with declining demand for pork products, partly due to changing consumer preferences and concerns about animal welfare. This has led to a reduction in the number of pigs raised, resulting in lower feed consumption for this species. To counteract this trend, producers have been exploring alternative markets and product lines, such as poultry and aquaculture feed, to diversify their offerings and stabilize their businesses.
Despite the challenges posed by animal diseases and the pig sector, the growth in cattle feed production offers a glimmer of hope for the French animal feed industry. The increasing demand for cattle feed is a reflection of the sector's potential for expansion and innovation. As farmers and producers continue to invest in sustainable practices and modern farming techniques, the industry is well-positioned to meet the growing needs of the cattle market and contribute to the overall agricultural growth of France.
In conclusion, the modest rise in French animal feed production in 2025, driven by increased demand for cattle feed, highlights the sector's resilience and adaptability in the face of significant challenges. While the industry has faced setbacks due to animal diseases and difficulties in the pig sector, the focus on cattle feed production and sustainable practices offers a promising outlook for the future. As the French animal feed industry continues to navigate these challenges, it remains a vital component of the country's agricultural economy, supporting the growth of the cattle sector and contributing to food security and economic stability.
