Key facts
- Domestic milk intake in April 2026 was 1.037 billion litres, down 37.1 million litres (-3.5%) from April 2025.
- Milk intake in April 2026 was up 85.4 million litres (+9%) compared to April 2024.
- Fat content in April 2026 was 4.24%, up from 4.08% in April 2025.
- Protein content dropped marginally from 3.47% to 3.46% in the 12 months to April 2026.
- Butter production increased to 32,700 tonnes in April 2026 from 31,800 tonnes in April 2025.
- Skimmed milk powder production rose to 21,100 tonnes in April 2026 from 20,500 tonnes in April 2025.
Domestic milk intake by milk processors and co-ops in April 2026 decreased by 37.1 million litres, or 3.5%, compared to April 2025, according to new figures from the Central Statistics Office (CSO). The total intake for April 2026 was estimated at 1.037 billion litres. However, this figure represents a 9% increase compared to April 2024. The fat content of the milk in April 2026 rose to 4.24% from 4.08% in the previous year, while protein content saw a marginal decrease from 3.47% to 3.46%. Butter production increased to 32,700 tonnes from 31,800 tonnes, and skimmed milk powder production rose to 21,100 tonnes from 20,500 tonnes. For the period January to April 2026, domestic milk intake was 2.38 billion litres, a decrease of 0.3% compared to the same period in 2025, but an increase of 7.7% compared to 2024. In separate dairy news, Ornua confirmed an increase in its May Purchase Price Index (PPI) to 129.8 from 127.0 in April, indicating higher market returns on dairy products.