Europe Animal Feed Market Outlook, 2029

Nutritional requirements among livestock animals and balanced feeding practices is gaining higher attention in few recent years due to increase in livestock producing feeds and scope to enhance the productivity to meet demand for animal feed market. Animal feed market is combined mixture of raw materials such as wheat, soya, ragi, barley, etc. It is even mixture of supplements sourced from animals, plants, organic, inorganic substances, or industrial processing. Proteins in animal feeds are excellent source of energy, minerals and essential amino acids. European Animal feed has become essential part of increasing livestock industry and meat production industry which concerns to various types of foods that are produced by grains, cereals, oil seeds, cakes and meals. Animal feed in Europe is integral to the livestock sector, with a strong emphasis on safety, quality, and sustainability. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) and various national agencies oversee strict regulations governing feed production, including the European Feed Hygiene Regulation and the Regulation on Feed Additives. These frameworks ensure that animal feeds are safe for consumption and nutritionally balanced. Consumer demand in Europe is increasingly leaning toward organic, non-GMO, and sustainably sourced feeds, driven by a growing awareness of animal welfare and environmental impact. The shift towards alternative protein sources and innovative feed formulations is also gaining traction, reflecting broader trends in food production and consumption. Recent data indicates a decline in compound feed production across EU member states due to factors like avian influenza outbreaks and economic uncertainties stemming from geopolitical events such as the Russian invasion of Ukraine. In 2022, EU compound feed production fell by 3.8% compared to previous years, with significant reductions noted in both pig and poultry feed sectors. These declines reflect broader trends of reduced livestock production driven by rising costs and regulatory pressures aimed at improving animal welfare and environmental sustainability. According to the research report, "Europe Animal Feed Market Outlook, 2029," published by Bonafide Research, the Europe Animal Feed market is anticipated to add to more than USD 27.20 Billion by 2024–29. The highest growth for meat consumption is expected from major countries of Europe such as Germany, France, Spain and United Kingdom. More consumption gives rise to more production because of changing diet patterns and lifestyles. The growth in Europe Animal Feed Market is mainly due to growth in meat consumption and even increasing urbanization. Also, increase in consumer awareness regarding benefits of protein rich foods which led to increase the consumption of meat and increase in population. Since, the European government has imposed ban on use of anti-biotic as a growth promoter. This ban is letting livestock producers in those regions to identify new ways by which they can stimulate production and deliver the same benefits provided by antibiotic growth promoters at completely affordable prices. The market dynamics are also influenced by trade relationships within Europe. For instance, Spain's robust meat export market primarily serves countries like Germany, France, Italy, and Portugal, fostering a strong interdependence that benefits the entire animal feed supply chain. Additionally, innovations in feed formulations are becoming increasingly important as producers seek to enhance meat quality and improve livestock health. The introduction of insect protein into poultry diets exemplifies this trend; such alternatives not only meet nutritional needs but also align with sustainability goals by reducing carbon emissions associated with traditional feed sources. Amid covid-19 pandemic, the European animal feed market pace has slowed down due to lockdown in various countries such as Italy, United Kingdom & Germany. The major business countries in Europe have imposed restrictions on transport with even applying stringent measures of lockdown in various countries. The covid-19 and it’s lockdown has adversely affect the production due to less labour availability.

The European livestock feed market is segmented into several key categories: cattle feed, poultry feed, pig feed, aqua feed, and others. Cattle feed is essential for beef and dairy production, with brands like Cargill and ForFarmers leading the market. Cargill offers a range of products tailored for different stages of cattle growth, such as Ranger® Limiter and NutreBeef® Cattle Feeds. The advantages of cattle feed include improved milk production in dairy cows and enhanced weight gain in beef cattle. The demand for high-quality cattle feed is driven by the increasing consumption of beef and dairy products in Europe, alongside a growing emphasis on sustainable farming practices. Poultry feed is one of the fastest-growing segments due to rising meat consumption and health concerns regarding poultry diseases. Key players include Nutreco, which produces Sada (poultry) and Nanta (compound feeds). The advantages of poultry feed lie in its ability to enhance growth rates, improve gut health, and boost immunity among birds. The pig feed segment is dominated by brands such as Kemin Industries and Agravis Raiffeisen. These companies provide specialized formulations that enhance growth efficiency and overall health in swine. The advantages of pig feed include improved feed conversion ratios and reduced disease incidence. The demand for pig feed remains robust due to the popularity of pork as a staple protein source in many European countries, with increasing exports further driving the market. Aqua feed, which caters to fish and other aquatic species, is primarily represented by Nutreco’s Skretting brand. This segment benefits from the growing aquaculture industry as consumers shift towards sustainable seafood options. In Europe, the animal feed market is characterized by a diverse range of ingredients categorized into cereals, by-products, cakes and meals, supplements, and others.Cereals are the primary energy source in animal feeds, with common types including corn, wheat, barley, and oats. Countries like France and Germany are significant producers of wheat, which is favored for its high protein content and digestibility. Corn is particularly important in poultry and pig feeds due to its high energy density. Barley is widely used for ruminants, providing both energy and fiber. The UK has seen an increase in grain production, which supports local feed markets and helps stabilize prices. By-products from agricultural processes also contribute significantly to feed formulations. Ingredients such as distiller dried grains (from ethanol production) and beet pulp (from sugar processing) provide valuable protein and fiber. These by-products not only reduce feed costs but also promote sustainability by utilizing materials that would otherwise be discarded. For instance, distiller dried grains are commonly incorporated into pig and cattle feeds across Europe. Cakes and meals, such as soybean meal and rapeseed meal, serve as crucial protein sources in animal diets. Soybean meal is highly regarded for its amino acid profile and is essential for poultry and swine nutrition. Rapeseed meal is gaining popularity as a sustainable alternative due to its lower environmental impact compared to traditional protein sources. Supplements are vital for enhancing the nutritional value of animal feeds. The others category encompasses specialty ingredients tailored for specific livestock needs, including insect proteins or natural flavorings aimed at improving palatability. The European Union has authorized the use of insect-derived proteins in animal feed, reflecting a growing trend towards sustainable feeding practices. In the European animal feed market, various forms of feed are utilized to cater to the nutritional needs of livestock, including pellets, mash, crumbles, and others like cubes and cakes. Pellets are the most widely used form of animal feed in Europe, accounting for a significant share of the market. They offer several benefits, including improved digestibility, reduced waste, and ease of handling and storage. Major producers such as Cargill and ForFarmers supply high-quality pellets tailored for various livestock, including poultry, pigs, and cattle. The compact nature of pellets also allows for efficient transportation, making them a preferred choice among farmers. Mash is another common form of feed that consists of a mixture of ground ingredients. It is often used in poultry feeds and is favored for its palatability and ease of consumption. Mash is particularly popular in regions where animals are fed directly on the ground or in troughs. While it may lead to more wastage compared to pellets, it remains a staple in many traditional farming practices across countries like France and Germany. Crumbles, which are essentially small pellets that have been broken down, are gaining traction in the poultry sector. They provide a balance between mash and pellets, offering better digestibility than mash while being easier for young birds to consume than larger pellets. Plant-based sources, such as soybeans, peas, and various grains, are increasingly favored due to their sustainability and lower environmental impact. The European Union (EU) has recognized the importance of promoting plant proteins to reduce reliance on imported animal feeds, which often contribute to deforestation and greenhouse gas emissions. Plant-based feeds provide essential nutrients while being more environmentally friendly, making them a key component in the shift towards sustainable farming practices. Additionally, they are often less expensive than animal-based alternatives, helping farmers manage costs effectively. The rise in consumer demand for plant-based diets further supports this trend, as there is a growing awareness of health benefits and environmental concerns associated with animal agriculture. On the other hand, animal-based sources include ingredients like fish meal, meat and bone meal, and dairy by-products. These ingredients are rich in protein and essential amino acids, making them highly valuable for livestock growth and productivity. Animal-based feeds are particularly important in regions where livestock production is intensive, such as in parts of Germany and France. They can enhance feed efficiency and improve the overall health of animals. However, the environmental implications of sourcing animal proteins have led to increased scrutiny and calls for more sustainable practices within this segment. Germany's position at the forefront of the European animal feed industry is largely attributed to its robust commitment to innovation and research. The country boasts a well-developed agricultural research sector, with numerous universities and institutions dedicated to advancing animal nutrition and feed technology. German companies invest significantly in research and development, focusing on creating specialized feed formulations that optimize growth, health, and productivity in livestock. This emphasis on scientific research enables the development of feeds that are not only nutritionally balanced but also tailored to meet the specific needs of different animal species, thereby enhancing feed efficiency and overall livestock performance. Moreover, Germany's animal feed industry is characterized by stringent quality standards and a comprehensive regulatory framework that ensures high levels of food safety. The country adheres to strict EU regulations governing the production and distribution of animal feed, which helps maintain consumer trust and promotes safe agricultural practices. German manufacturers are known for their commitment to quality control, employing advanced monitoring systems throughout the production process. This focus on quality helps to mitigate risks associated with contaminants and ensures that the feeds provided to livestock are safe and effective. Germany benefits from a well-established and efficient supply chain that facilitates the distribution of animal feed throughout Europe. The country's strong agricultural base ensures a steady supply of raw materials, while its advanced logistics infrastructure allows for timely and effective delivery of feed products to farmers. This efficiency enhances the competitiveness of German feed manufacturers in the European market. Major Companies present in the market: Cargill Inc., Guangdong Haid Group, Chareon Pokphand Foods, For Farmers, New Hope Liuhe Co Ltd, Archer Daniels Midland Co, Feed One Co, Ltd, Alltech Inc, Nutreco N.V, Kent Nutrition Group.

Considered in this report: • Geography: Europe • Base year: 2023 • Estimated year: 2024 • Forecast year: 2029 Aspects covered in this report • Europe animal feed market with its value and forecast along with its segments • Country-wise animal feed products market analysis • Various drivers and challenges • On-going trends and developments • Top profiled companies • Strategic recommendation Countries covered in the report • Germany • United Kingdom • France • Italy • Spain • Russia • Rest of Europe Types of feed ingredients in the report: • Cereals • By-Products • Cakes & Meals • Supplements • Others Types of feed by livestock in the report: • Cattle Feeds • Poultry Feeds • Pig Feeds • Aqua Feeds Types of form in the report: • Pellet • Mash • Crumbles • Cubes & Cakes The approach of the report: This report consists of a combined approach of primary as well as secondary research. Initially, secondary research was used to get an understanding of the market and listing out the companies that are present in the market. The secondary research consists of third party sources such as press releases, annual report of companies, analysing the government generated reports and databases. After gathering the data from secondary sources primary research was conducted by making telephonic interviews with the leading players about how the market is functioning and then conducted trade calls with dealers and distributors of the market. Post this we have started doing primary calls to consumers by equally segmenting consumers in regional aspects, tier aspects, age group, and gender. Once we have primary data with us we have started verifying the details obtained from secondary sources. Intended audience This report can be useful to industry consultants, manufacturers, suppliers, associations & organizations related to animal feed industry, government bodies and other stakeholders to align their market-centric strategies. In addition to marketing & presentations, it will also increase competitive knowledge about the industry.