The National Dairy Council (NDC) has released findings from a recent survey indicating strong public support for dairy products as part of a healthy and sustainable diet in Ireland.
Key Survey Results:
Perception of Dairy in Diet:
83% of Irish respondents believe dairy is integral to a healthy, balanced diet, marking a 4% increase from a similar study in May 2023.
80% view dairy products as suitable for sustainable diets, also showing a 4% rise since May 2023, despite growing interest in plant-based alternatives.
Trust in Dairy Farmers:
71% expressed trust in Irish dairy farmers’ ability to care for the environment, demonstrating confidence in their environmental stewardship efforts.
Over 16,000 dairy farmers participate in sustainability initiatives, reflecting a commitment to environmental goals and gaining recognition from the public.
Support for Dairy Industry:
The dairy sector in Ireland includes 17,500 family farms, supports 55,000 jobs, and contributes €6.3 billion in export revenues, underscoring its economic significance.
The industry has embraced technological advancements like soil sampling, low-emission fertilizers, and GPS-guided practices to enhance environmental sustainability.
Challenges and Commitments:
The dairy industry acknowledges environmental challenges and has set clear, ambitious targets to reduce its ecological footprint.
Efforts to reduce agricultural emissions have shown promising results, as highlighted by recent reports from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
Insights from NDC:
Mark Keller, interim CEO of NDC, emphasized the survey results as a testament to genuine public support for Irish dairy.
He noted ongoing efforts within the sector to improve sustainability practices and address environmental impacts effectively.
Despite challenges, Keller highlighted the consistent backing from consumers across different age groups, affirming dairy’s essential role in their dietary choices.
Conclusion:
The NDC survey underscores strong public confidence in dairy products and farmers in Ireland, despite increasing discussions on plant-based alternatives and environmental concerns. The industry’s commitment to sustainability and technological innovation appears pivotal in maintaining consumer trust and support while addressing environmental imperatives.
Overall, the survey reflects a positive outlook for the Irish dairy sector, emphasizing its economic contributions, environmental efforts, and continued relevance in national diets.