Agci, crisis in the buffalo sector, proposals to safeguard the DOP buffalo mozzarella in Italy

The climatic anomalies and the excess of frozen milk put at risk the entire supply chain of the PDO buffalo mozzarella, a symbol of Italian gastronomy, which is currently in a critical situation with a clear contraction in demand. The first summer months of 2023 and 2024 were characterized by heavy rains and abnormal temperatures, mainly in the central-northern regions, where over 70% of the PDO buffalo mozzarella from Campania is consumed. This has led to a surplus of buffalo milk that cannot be disposed of as usual. To date, the amount of frozen milk remaining in storage centers is estimated at around 60 million euros, with processors struggling to collect milk from farmers. Experts' forecasts are alarming: a significant reduction in the price of buffalo milk is expected and, most likely, over 25% of breeding companies will not be able to stipulate supply contracts for 2025. This crisis threatens not only producers and breeders, but the entire supply chain, including fodder ...