As Belgium bakes in the heat, concerns grow over milk and meat production

• Heat stress is causing cows to eat less and be less active, reducing milk production, while pig growth is down approximately 150 grams per day, cutting meat output
• One Belgian farmer reports the heatwave costs him €150-200 daily, equivalent to 10-15% of his income, despite using artificial cooling systems
• Farmers expect heatwaves to become more regular, requiring greater investment in cooling infrastructure that may need to reduce inlet temperatures by as much as 8 degrees Celsius

Belgium Heatwave Threatens Livestock Production

Belgium issued a rare "red alert" on June 25, 2026, as an extreme heatwave with temperatures reaching 40°C (104°F) significantly impacts the country's agricultural sector, particularly livestock farming.

Key Impact on Production

The Flemish farming association Boerenbond expects substantial reductions in both milk and meat production, though precise figures are not yet available. Sander Palmans, director of the Agricultural Research and Education Center and a farmer in Bocholt, reports significant heat stress effects on his livestock:

• Dairy cattle: Reduced activity, decreased feed intake, and reluctance to lie down on warm bedding are lowering milk production
• Pigs: Growth rates declining by approximately 150 grams per day, directly reducing meat output
• Financial toll: Palmans estimates daily losses of €150-€200, representing 10-15% of his income

Mitigation Efforts

Despite farmers deploying cooling techniques including fans and other artificial systems, production continues to decline. The Flemish agriculture ministry noted livestock farmers are most affected, while crop producers remain relatively protected due to recent rainfall preventing drought conditions.

Market Implications

Similar conditions are affecting France, indicating a broader regional agricultural crisis. Palmans anticipates heatwaves becoming more frequent, necessitating increased investment in cooling infrastructure—potentially requiring inlet temperature reductions of up to 8°C for livestock housing.

The situation suggests potential near-term supply constraints in European dairy and meat markets, with implications for commodity prices and agricultural sector profitability. The trend toward more frequent extreme weather events may drive long-term structural costs for livestock producers across the region.