DYNAMICS OF DAIRY PRODUCTS CONSUMPTION IN POLAND AGAINST THE BACKGROUND OF THE EU

Consumption is among the key determinants of milk production and profitability. The main purpose of this paper is to present the level of and changes in milk and dairy products consumption in the EU in 2004–2018. Due to changing consumer preferences, the average consumption of milk and milk products in EU countries is on an increase. In turn, Poland witnesses growth in consumption of milk for ripening and processed cheese and yogurt. In 2004–2017, per capita consumption of ice cream, cheese and powdered milk followed a downward trend. In order to examine changes in the consumption of milk and milk products, a forecast was prepared which shows that in 2018–2022, Poland will experience an increase in the average monthly consumption of milk, ice cream and cheese. On the other hand, the EU will report growth in consumption of fresh dairy products, butter, cheese, skim milk and powdered milk, and a decrease in casein consumption.