ABSTRACT
There are three key drivers that are likely to affect the production of meat and milk from grass-based systems in the next 20 years. These are: (i) a general increase in global demand for milk and meat; (ii) concern about the environmental impact of agricultural practices; and (iii) an increasing concern by consumers about food quality, including food safety and animal welfare, especially in the developed world. The global demand for animal products is projected to increase considerably, driven mainly by population growth, economic growth and urbanization in China and Southeast Asia. The environmental impacts of grazing systems vary considerably depending on the climatic conditions, but are likely to be an increasingly important factor. Food quality, food safety and animal welfare will also probably continue to be an important aspect in the market for milk and meat in developed countries, providing an opportunity for producers of meat and milk from grass-based systems.
