The oilseed flax industry is looking for seed multiplier farmers

France is facing a challenge in meeting global demand for oilseed flax seeds, despite dedicating 25,000 to 30,000 hectares of land to seed production annually. The sector plans to increase this to 50,000 hectares in three years to address the shortfall. Currently, Europe's production of 200,000 tonnes is unable to meet global demand due to low profitability caused by fluctuating world prices. The Lin 2000 Cooperative is playing a significant role in covering the French market with its Linea and SCA Lin 2000 varieties, which satisfy 80-85% of the demand. The sector is hopeful with growing consumer interest in omega-3 rich products for both animal and human nutrition.

"Oilseed flax seeds have always been available to supply the market, and we are doing everything we can to ensure this continues in 2025," assures Denis Burlaud, technical manager of seed production at the Lin 2000 Cooperative (Oise). "Every year, France devotes 25,000 to 30,000 hectares to seed production, mainly winter flax (75%), sown at a rate of 30 kg/ha, while spring flax (25%) is sown at a rate of 60 kg/ha," points out Semae. "However, with European production of 200,000 tonnes, supply remains insufficient to meet global demand, particularly due to limited economic profitability per hectare, caused by low and fluctuating world prices." One of the major challenges in the coming years is the lack of seed-multiplying farmers. The sector is therefore calling on producers to achieve the target of planting 50,000 hectares within three years. "The coming years will be demanding, but we will activate all levers to ensure the future and sustainability of the sector," maintains ...