Ireland: The future of dairy is goat and sheep’s milk – vet

The opportunity to develop a vibrant goat and sheep’s milk sector in Ireland is immense, according to a vet and researcher, Cormac White. The Belfast native, who is now a practising veterinarian in Somerset, has carried out research on the potential of small ruminant dairy production. Making this happen has required White to travel throughout Europe and South America. Speaking at Balmoral Show last week, White said: “Goat and sheep’s milk is much more nutritious, relative to what is the case with dairy cows. “Demand for products made with milk from small ruminants is growing in countries around the world. The myriad cheese products made from either goat or sheep’s milk represent a case in point. “Southern Europe has been the traditional heart land of sheep and goat production. However, climate change is now acting to make ruminant-based agriculture a very marginal enterprise in this region,” he added. “This trend is likely to gain further momentum during the period ahead. E.g., ...