The future of many businesses is under threat after a reduction in the number of cows left in the island.

The study, conducted by food industry specialist Dr Donald McQueen, has been carried out to find ways to get the industry back into profit.

A major restructuring of the industry is already under way and the cattle stock has been reduced by about 15%.

David Griffis, the Chief Officer of the Agriculture and Fisheries Department, said most dairy farmers on the island have been involved in the review.

He said there was an urgent need to get the industry back into profit.