The price of butter is reaching historic highs, with a tonne rising to 8,180 euros in September 2024, an increase of 92% compared to last year. A surge in prices which can be explained by several factors. One of the main reasons is the epidemic of bluetongue (BCF) which affects sheep and cattle herds in France and Europe. This disease leads to a reduction in the production of milk, a key element in the production of butter, thus causing a drop in supply. At the same time, some breeders have chosen to favor the production of cream, which is more profitable, further reducing the quantity of butter available on the market.
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Limited repercussions for the consumer
This combination of factors has led to an increase in prices in international markets. Despite this situation, experts believe that the impact on consumers will be limited. Store prices are not expected to double, partly thanks to lower-priced butter imports, particularly from New Zealand. This situation could, however, affect the price of butter-based products, such as pastries. However, butter is not the only raw material to see its price soar. Other everyday products are also seeing significant increases, largely due to extreme weather conditions and harvest disruptions in various parts of the world. Sugar, for example, is reaching new heights, its price being at its highest level in six months. Likewise, the price of coffee, particularly robusta, increased by 147% in one year, impacted by the drought in Vietnam, the world’s leading exporter.
