Figures released by Bord Bia show an almost 7% increase in the sale of cow’s milk since 2015, with the market value standing at €491m last year.

“Irish consumers are buying more milk, highlighting an increasing interest in high-protein food and drink,” Bord Bia stated.

Two-thirds of consumers opted to use or serve whole milk, making it the most used type of milk in Ireland.

However, there was also an increase in sales of alternative milk types, with soya milk sales worth €17m last year, marking a 20% increase.

Overall, milk alternatives saw a 38% increase, with sales worth an estimated €29m in 2017.

Commenting on the results, Bord Bia said: “It is estimated that 10% of Irish people avoid dairy due to themselves or a member of their household having a confirmed or suspected allergy or intolerance.”

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