The dairy industry is one of the main factors holding back inflation.
Experts note that in the first quarter of 2026, consumer prices for dairy products grew significantly more slowly than for other food products. Over the year, milk rose by 7.3%, sour cream by 5.7%, soft cheeses by 5.3%, and butter by only 1.9%. Meanwhile, meat, eggs, and bread increased by 15% to over 20%. "Over the last six months, prices for dairy products remained relatively stable, rising slightly or even decreasing slightly (butter -1.4%). Instead, eggs, oil, and bread increased significantly, while only pork and chicken became cheaper," the association added. From a yearly perspective, the change in the price of dairy products from producers ranged from -3.2% for butter to +5% for sour cream, while prices for beef, poultry, pasta, and bread increased much more—up to 34%. "In the six-month trend, producer prices for dairy products mostly decreased, while most other products continued to rise," the association explains. uadairy.com