Skim and whey moved up in tandem this week, both by €20 to €30. Skim milk powder is now officially 50% higher than a year ago, when the intervention sting netted the traders a base value of €1600, as they are now achieving €2450. There may be some relief by year end, as producers traditionally release larger volumes of stock to square their books, but this is not a traditional market.

The rise in whey is baseless, as supply is readily available with Christmas cheese production is in full swing.

Sterling continues to amaze, holding on to its highest values for a long while, during an election period that is traditionally volatile. But this is not a traditional market.

BDC agri is the UK broker for Lacto Production milk and whey powder products. For further information and prices, contact Greg Dunn on 01206 381521 or g.dunn@blackdiamondcommodities.com