Live Irish dairy prices and future profit forecasts—see why so many farmers add hemp for stress-free income.
January 2026 dairy prices have fallen sharply – global oversupply and weak demand for butter, cheese and powders have driven base prices down. Input costs remain stubbornly high, squeezing margins. Many farmers are looking to hemp as a low‑stress buffer.
Data as of Jan 2026, excludes VAT.
Dairy’s tough—costs climb, demand wavers. Hemp’s lighter: older farmers can add 1 acre, keep milking, and earn, while young ones go big for fast cash. We’ve got you covered.
| Dairy | Hemp | |
|---|---|---|
| Cycle Time | Ongoing | 3–4 months |
| Risk | High (costs, demand) | Low (small start) |
| Profit | €0.37/L, falling | Stable, fair |
| Appeal | Legacy (older) | Future (young) |
