VOICED: Drought casts palls on French livestock industry

In southern France, persistent drought has severely impacted animal food supplies, reducing grass growth to half its normal levels. Farmers, already struggling with low meat prices, are forced to sell livestock due to high maintenance costs. Abattoirs are overwhelmed as they cannot meet the demand for urgent animal slaughter. The situation is reminiscent of the catastrophic 1976 drought, but potentially worse due to larger farm sizes. Occasional rain offers little relief, and farmers fear using winter feed reserves, risking another food crisis in the cold season.

What is the primary reason for the decline in animal food supply in southern France?

• Overproduction of grass

• Persistent drought

• Increased meat prices

• Government regulations

How are farmers responding to the high cost of keeping livestock alive?

• Expanding their farms

• Importing animal feed

• Selling off livestock

• Increasing meat prices

What historical event is the current drought being compared to?

• The drought of 1986

• The drought of 2006

• The drought of 1976

• The drought of 1996

What is a significant challenge for larger farms during the drought?

• Lack of space for animals

• Inability to afford feed

• Too much rain

• Excessive government support

What do farmers fear might lead to another food crisis?

• An unexpected rise in grass growth

• A decrease in meat demand

• A sudden increase in livestock

• Using winter feed reserves