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摘要

The ideal milk production profiles for producers and processors differ. Shirley Macmillan finds out how the latter are encouraging year-round supplies. Is seasonality an issue? It could be if Bibby's predictions come true and a trend towards spring calving (see table) results in a flush of milk produced cheaply off grass. Ideally, processors want flat milk profiles to operate factories in the most efficient, cost-effective way. They are, however, realistic enough to accept that a number of factors,ranging from climate and feed availability to farm facilities and staffing levels, can all affect an individual herd's calving pattern. Add to this historical regional variations (spring calving in the west and autumn calving in the east) and it seems the key factor in maintaining most supplies on an even keel is the seasonality payment system.