Farmers could face greater variation in the nutritional value of home-grown and purchased cereals this season, making regular raw material analysis increasingly important, according to Premier Nutrition’s early Harvest 2026 results.
The company’s mid-term survey found UK wheat protein levels broadly comparable with 2025 and above those recorded in previous years, while barley protein is currently at its highest average level in the past five years.
Moisture levels in both cereals are among the lowest recorded in recent seasons, reflecting the exceptionally dry growing conditions. However, considerable regional variation in quality and nutrient levels means relying on book values or historic data could increase formulation risk.
Yield reductions across several crops could add further complexity, with changes in ingredient sources potentially requiring additional reformulation because of variability between sources.
Premier Nutrition support nutritionist and report co-author Sophia Lewin said the early results reinforced the importance of regular ingredient analysis, with differences already evident between regions and individual samples.
Poultry nutritionist and co-author Dr Alex Kemp said monitoring ingredient quality and adapting formulations could help nutritionists maximise the value of available raw materials, maintain performance and manage risk.
The survey remains incomplete, with further samples still being analysed. The full dataset will be added to Premier Nutrition’s Atlas raw materials matrix, with a final Harvest 2026 report due in October.