UK milk production turns negative in May

UK milk production slipped into decline in May, marking the first year-over-year contraction after several months of slowing growth. Despite the weaker monthly result, cumulative milk output remained above last year's level, while stronger fat and protein contents continued to support milk solids production. Falling farmgate milk prices combined with rising feed costs placed increasing financial pressure on dairy producers throughout the first half of the year. The pressure accelerated further severe early-summer heatwaves, which triggered heat stress and affected the decline in milk collection.