In many segments, the German milk industry once again saw increases in per capita consumption. The per capita consumption of cheese was particularly significant for the German milk industry, which rose in 2006 to a new record level of 22.4 kg. The greatest rate of increase occurred for hard and soft cheeses and sliced cheese, particularly feta and mozzarella.

The trend for milk fat sales in Germany was stable. In 2006, German consumers used 64 kg of butter, which was approximately the same amount as in the previous year. This figure includes butter sales in the industrial sector, particularly pastries and ice cream.

The hot summer of 2006 led to higher consumption of fresh milk products in Germany. In total, sales for yoghurt suppliers rose by more than 1 %. In the drinking milk sector, the figures also increased slightly, reaching 64.8 kg.

This increase in per capita consumption, as well as promoting growth in the German milk industry, is also benefiting European exporters, who are supplying goods to Germany. This is particularly the case for the Netherlands, and also France and Denmark.

The trendsetters of 2006 will also make the major contribution to growth in 2007. Cheese sales continue to increase, despite the slight tendency for prices per kilogramme to rise.