Climate Change Threatens Milk Quality and Output

Climate change is emerging as a growing threat not only to the quantity of milk produced worldwide but also to overall dairy productivity, despite significant investments in cooling technologies and farm adaptation measures. New research analyzing data from more than 130,000 dairy cows across Israel over a 12-year period found that a single day of extreme heat and humidity can reduce milk production by up to 10%, with impacts lasting more than 10 days.

Scientists reported that even advanced cooling systems, including ventilation and water-spraying technologies, only partially offset production losses, particularly during hotter conditions. The study estimates that without adaptation, major milk-producing nations could experience average daily milk output declines of around 4% by mid-century, while countries such as India, Pakistan, and Brazil may face even greater losses.

Researchers noted that rising temperatures, heat stress, and changing climate patterns are increasingly challenging dairy farm resilience, with implications for milk supply, farm profitability, and global food security. The findings highlight the urgent need for additional climate adaptation strategies, improved animal welfare measures, and long-term investments to safeguard dairy production in a warming world. (Phys.org)

Source: Dairynews7x7 20 June, 2026 Read full story here

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