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Protein demand expected to support the dairy markets in the second half of 2026

The senior dairy analyst with Terrain says consumer demand for protein is helping drive market opportunities for dairy producers. 

Ben Lane says favorable margins and additional revenue streams are helping keep producers afloat.

“Feed is still relatively affordable,” he says. “We also have the added bonus of beef on dairy. It will take some additional risk management if prices go up, and producers are trying to take some of that risk off the table. I do think it will be a manageable second half of the year.”

He tells Brownfield the industry continues to see milk production growth.

“If we continue to see consumer inflation, that would be a major risk factor,” he says. “We have plenty of supplies, we’re just keeping an eye on demand to see if it can hang in there.”

Lane says protein demand and record-high export numbers are expected to drive the market during the second half of 2026.

AUDIO: Ben Lane