Dairy manufacturer Arla Foods has urged the Government to take action after a survey revealed there is a shortage of qualified farm workers.

According to figures from the research, one in six farmers filling vacancies got few or no responses from qualified applicants.

Additionally, 47% of farmers are aged 55 and older, while only 3% are first-generation farmers.

Bas Padberg, managing director of Arla Foods UK, said: “What we’re seeing is the real impact of these workforce shortages on our farming industry, whether that’s in higher costs or lower milk production. The effect of this is ultimately going to be seen in the price and availability of products on the supermarket shelves, affecting the millions of people who rely on dairy as a source of nutrition in their diet.

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“We know the Government has acknowledged the problem and welcome a focus on talent and development as part of the forthcoming food strategy. But we need to act quickly and we need practical steps that the industry, the education sector and government can take together to support more opportunities for inclusion and growth.”

In response to the labour shortage, 6% of farmers have reduced output, while 13% plan to stop farming within the next 12 months if the situation does not improve.

Heather Davies, a member of Arla’s Board of Representatives, said: “Recruiting for farming roles remains a significant challenge, with over 90% of applicants coming to us on our farm without any previous experience in agriculture.

“There is a clear disconnect between the education system and pathways into agriculture, and perhaps an even wider gap between people and the origins of their food. Despite the incredible variety and fulfilment that a career in farming offers, we struggle to attract people to the industry.”