Farmers Profile and Characterization of Sheep and Goat Dairy Chain in Northwestern Greece

Abstract

The aim of the present study, conducted under the ERA-NET ARIMNet2 Project (Agricultural Research in the Mediterranean Network), was to analyze the sheep and goat dairy sector and assess the quality and safety of milk at various stages of the dairy supply chain. The study took place in the north-west part of Greece; 52 farms, one milk collection center, and eight dairy processing companies participated. The results revealed that all farms had access to water and electricity, the majority of them had a license to operate, used non-organic milk, and employed family members. The price of milk was fairly unstable throughout the year. Two major dairy companies produced all year round while others seasonally. Products were sold in retail, wholesale, company-owned stores, and even by door-to-door delivery service. The analyzed milk samples were of good quality and safety. The strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (SWOT) analysis revealed the farmers’ determination to continue working in the sector despite milk prices and problems due to the shortage of cash. Local sheep and goat breeds may further be used due to the fact of their good adaptation to the environmental conditions. The future of the Greek dairy chain is promising despite high competition within and outside of the European Union.