The average cost of calf milk replacer is up €61 per tonne compared to the same period last year.

The average price of milk replacer is now €43.62 for a 20kg bag and €55 for a 25kg bag. These prices are up €1/bag on last year’s prices. At a 12.5% mixing rate, the average price of mixed milk works out at 27c/l.

The price increase is being attributed to the increase in prices for dairy ingredients. The price of skim milk powder, a key ingredient in milk replacers has increased by 20% since September and is up almost 90% on this time last year.

Not all manufacturers have increased prices, with Volac and Co-op Source holding prices at 2019 levels.