EMPHASIS ON OATS AS PRICES STAY STRONG  

The reasons for the rise in the milling oat price to its highest level for some years will be explained on the Just Oats stand at Cereals 2024.

Industry experts from the oat supply chain will outline why the uptick in demand, combined with reduced availability of milling oats from a smaller crop and this season’s very difficult weather conditions, are influencing the current situation.

As in previous years, the Just Oats stand is bringing together representatives from across milling, animal nutrition, agronomy and plant breeding disciplines to impart the latest information on oats - described by some market commentators as ‘the crop of the year’.

A one-stop shop for everyone with an interest in oats and a popular feature of the Cereals Event, Just Oats will highlight the crop’s versatility and the increasing range of oat markets, as well as its suitability for sustainable farming systems.

This year, a reduction in the planted area, the opening of a new mill and an increased requirement from oat milk manufacturers are all driving current crop demand, explains Tom Yewbrey of Just Oats organiser Senova.

“Add in the difficulties with getting both winter and spring oat crops established in an exceptionally wet year and you can see why milling oat prices are so high. In such a tricky season, planting intentions haven’t been matched by reality.”

Tom adds that the oat market has always been dynamic, with supply contracts playing an important role. “Its current strength shows how oats are now a ‘must have’ as far as retailers and consumers are concerned.”

On this year’s stand, guidance on growing and marketing the crop will be available, along with an insight into the oat supply chain and the collaborative efforts to support and develop the crop.

A range of winter and spring oat varieties, husked and naked, will be in plots, with millers highlighting the characteristics that they look for in both new and established varieties and breeders discussing future lines for emerging markets.

Food manufacturers will add a further dimension, showing how the sustainability of oats is helping with climate targets and demonstrating why different varieties suit their purposes.

“As well as traditional breakfast oat products, there have been innovations for the convenience and on-the-go consumer markets, as well as more uses for oats in animal feeds, in cosmetics and other emerging well-being markets,” notes Tom.

Of particular interest to visitors at this year’s Cereals Event will be the recommended winter oat variety Cromwell, a Mascani cross, which combines high yields with milling quality.

There will also be a chance to see Valentine, a candidate winter oat variety, and a new high yielding spring oat, Nova – both of which will be marketed by Senova.