Powdered milk production represents a strategic solution for capitalizing on surplus raw milk and stabilizing the market during periods of fluctuating demand. In Romania, powdered milk processing capacity is still limited, being concentrated in a few large units, and MADR data show that in 2024 domestic production covered only 45% of the internal market demand.

Whole and skimmed milk powder must comply with the requirements of the Codex Alimentarius and Regulation (EU) No. 1308/2013, including a minimum protein content of 34% for skimmed milk powder. From a technological standpoint, spray drying is the predominant method, ensuring the preservation of nutritional value, but it involves high energy consumption. Studies conducted by the International Dairy Federation (IDF) indicate that optimizing drying parameters and recovering thermal energy can reduce costs by up to 18%. On foreign markets, demand for Romanian powdered milk is increasing, particularly in the Middle East and Asia, due to its nutritional profile and EU standards.

However, competitiveness is affected by higher production costs compared to major global producers and by the lack of well-coordinated export programs. The development of domestic capacities and investments in energy-efficient technologies can transform powdered milk into a strategic product for Romania’s dairy industry.

(Photo: Freepik)