Temporary closure of schools reduces demand for milk for meals Considering support for farmers Agriculture Minister Ato Eto March 3, 13:24
Minister Eto Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries expects that the impact of the new coronavirus on the suspension of school lunches due to the spread of the new coronavirus and the expected decrease in milk demand is expected by the Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries of Japan. Showed the idea to consider.
School meals account for about 10% of the milk consumed in Japan, but the temporary closure of schools in various places has led to the cancellation of school meals, which is expected to reduce demand for milk.
Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries Minister Eto stated in a press conference after the Cabinet meeting on March 3 that "we would like manufacturers to accept processed milk as raw material for dairy products such as butter. Raw milk will not lose its place." Was.
He further stated, "Because the income of farmers can be reduced by using processed milk, it is necessary to consider measures that include prolonging the impact." He expressed his thoughts on how to consider support.
Minister Eto also said that the food service industry has cooled down in this situation, prices of marine products such as tuna and scallops, and prices of beef have fallen in some areas, and demand for flowers has declined due to successive cancellations of events. Has revealed that the impact on the country is widespread.
"We take the situation seriously. We want to work out measures in the future while paying attention to price fluctuations, supply and demand conditions, and a stable supply of food," said Eto.