The plant-based milk industry is undergoing a significant transformation as consumer demand shifts toward sustainability and local sourcing. Alpro, owned by Danone, has announced a multimillion-pound investment to transition its UK oat milk production to 100% British oats, a move that could reshape supply chains and benefit local farmers.
The Rise of Oat Milk in the UK
Oat milk has become the UK’s most popular dairy alternative, accounting for 39% of all plant-based milk sales—up from just 25% in 2020 (Circana, 2024). Brits now consume half a million litres of oat milk daily, yet only 1% of it is made from 100% British oats. Alpro’s shift aims to change that, with plans to produce 58 million litres of British oat milk annually at its Kettering facility.
Boosting Local Agriculture and Reducing Emissions
By sourcing oats from within an 80-mile radius of the Navara oat mill in Kettering, Alpro will drastically cut food miles—a key factor in reducing carbon emissions. The company is also upgrading its production technology to enhance efficiency, aligning with Danone’s broader sustainability goals.
This move creates a new revenue stream for British oat farmers, who traditionally supply oats for porridge, cereals, and baked goods. James Skidmore, MD of Navara Oat Milling, notes that this investment “opens up more opportunities for oat farmers to broaden their markets.”
Health and Market Demand Driving Change
A 2024 Kantar survey revealed that 50% of UK plant-based shoppers prioritize health, prompting Alpro to reformulate its oat milk with higher fiber, calcium, iodine, and vitamins D2 and B2. Despite rising costs in the food sector, Alpro confirms that retail prices for its British oat milk will not increase.
A Win for Farmers, Consumers, and the Planet
Alpro’s commitment to 100% British oats strengthens the UK’s agricultural economy while meeting consumer demand for sustainable, healthy alternatives. With plant-based milk sales still growing (up 1% in January 2024, despite declines in traditional milk), this shift sets a precedent for localized, climate-friendly food production.
For farmers and agronomists, this represents a new market opportunity—one that supports both economic resilience and environmental sustainability.
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