Food commentators ‘as big a threat as market volatility to dairy growth’

Food commentators in the media and social networks represent as big a threat as market volatility to dairy and livestock growth ambitions, experts warned at yesterday’s ICOS national conference.

UCD associate professor of public health Dr Pat Wall said Irish growth ambitions could be impacted upon by changes in consumer sentiment. Some 170 co-op directors, management and senior food industry personnel attended the event in Killeshin Hotel, Portlaoise, Co Laois, hosted by the Irish Co-operative Organisation Society (ICOS).

“Farmers and Ireland’s dairy and food industry are effectively in the international health business. As a result we must plan carefully for all potential risks and eventualities that could potentially upset consumer sentiment towards our produce,” said Dr Wall.