15 February 2008 - According to governmental data, French consumption of dairy products has declined by 7% between 1997 and 2006.
The government explains the drop by two factors.
Firstly, consumers are more and more concerned by health aspects of food and are seeking “lighter” dairy products, which require less milk to be produced.
Secondly, the food industry players have increased the prices of their dairy products.
During the 1997-2006 period, liquid milk consumption fell by 20% and butter declined by 12%.
However, yoghurt consumption grew 50% and dairy-based deserts by 70%.