Milk to feed price ratio (MFPR)

Updated 10 March 2026

The milk to feed price ratio (MFPR) shows the value of milk compared with the cost of purchased feed. Feed costs account for around 70% of variable costs. The MFPR gives an indication of inputs costs in relation to income. It is updated on a monthly basis

The ratio quoted is the actual MFPR, which are provided by Kingshay and Promar Milkminder

We are currently reviewing the production of calculated monthly prices and hope to add these to the website when the data is updated.

Table 1. GB Milk to feed price ratio (MFPR)

Source: Actual - Kingshay, Promar Milkminder, Defra, AHDB, Daera

Figure 1. Actual milk to feed price ratio (MFPR) - average

Source: Actual - Kingshay, Promar, Defra, AHDB, Daera

Figure 1 shows that the monthly values (solid blue line) fluctuate, peaking in early autumn before falling sharply at year‑end, while the five‑year rolling average (dashed blue line) shows a steady, gradual rise. The data behind it can be found in the Milk to feed price ratio Excel download below.

• The actual MFPR is normally provided two to three months in arrears
• The MFPR is an indicator only and not a replacement for analysis on the full costs of production
• The ratio will increase if either farmgate milk prices increase or concentrate prices decrease
• The ratio will vary greatly from farm-to-farm depending on milk price achieved and type of feed used. The ratio should only be used as a guide to the cost-revenue relationship in the country

This dataset was produced by our Data and Analysis Team. To find out more about the team, please visit the Data and Analysis team page.

If you need any further help, please email Martin, Dorian, Gavin or Esther at datum@ahdb.org.uk

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