Wheat consumption in the U.K. will be lower than previous estimates, with usage declines in industrial and feeding purposes, according to a report released on Wednesday from the U.K.'s Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA).

Wheat consumption is estimated at 14.1 million tonnes in the 2011 marketing year that began July 1, a 2.6 per cent drop from estimates in January. Usage in human and industrial products dropped 3.7 per cent, and 1.5 per cent in animal feed.

Wheat supply is expected to remain at 17.8 million tonnes.

A drop in ethanol production has lowered usage levels, and survey data from flour millers and brewers also was showing lower usage levels than expected, Derfa said.