Dairy Ingredients Market Size & Share Analysis - Growth Trends & Forecasts (2025 - 2030)

The Dairy Ingredients Market Report is Segmented by Product Type (Milk Powders, Milk Protein Concentrates and Isolates, Whey Ingredients, and More), Nature (Conventional and Organic), Livestock Origin (Cow, Buffalo, Goat and Sheep), Application (Bakery and Confectionery, Dairy Products, Infant Milk Formula, Sports and Clinical Nutrition, and More), and Geography. The Market Forecasts are Provided in Terms of Value (USD).

Dairy Ingredients Market Size and Share

Dairy Ingredients Market (2025 - 2030)
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Dairy Ingredients Market Analysis by Mordor Intelligence

The dairy ingredients market is estimated to be USD 65.01 billion in 2025 and is forecast to reach USD 76.86 billion by 2030, advancing at a 3.41% CAGR. The market growth continues due to increased consumer preference for protein-rich products, established processing technologies, and higher utilization of specialty powders in food security programs. Europe remains the largest regional market, supported by regulatory quality requirements and developed milk collection networks. The Asia-Pacific region demonstrates the highest growth rate, driven by higher income levels, urban population growth, and favorable government policies that increase milk production and ingredient demand. Market applications expand through sports nutrition products, infant formula, and functional foods, while advancements in fermentation processes and automated plant operations improve production efficiency and reduce environmental impact.

Key Report Takeaways

  • By product type, milk powders led with 45.56% of 2024 revenue and are projected to expand at a 3.61% CAGR through 2030.
  • By nature, conventional ingredients dominated with 88.72% share in 2024, while organic lines are set for a 6.85% CAGR during 2025-2030.
  • By livestock origin, cow-derived offerings captured an 81.13% dairy ingredient market share in 2024; goat-based ingredients show the fastest 4.17% CAGR outlook.
  • By application, bakery and confectionery held a 25.90% share in 2024, whereas sports and clinical nutrition are poised for a 4.54% CAGR to 2030.
  • By geography, Europe retained a 29.99% share in 2024, yet Asia-Pacific is forecast to grow at a 5.41% CAGR over the period.

Segment Analysis

By Product Type: Milk Powders Lead Innovation

Milk powders command 45.56% market share in 2024 while simultaneously achieving the fastest growth rate of 3.61% CAGR among product types, reflecting their versatility across applications and critical role in global food security initiatives. This dual leadership position stems from technological advances in spray drying and roller drying methods that have enhanced product quality and functional properties, making milk powders increasingly attractive for manufacturers seeking cost-effective protein fortification solutions. Skimmed milk powder and whole milk powder represent the largest subsegments, with growing demand from emerging markets where shelf stability and nutritional density are paramount considerations for food security programs.

Whey ingredients constitute the second-largest category, with whey protein concentrates and isolates experiencing robust demand from sports nutrition and functional food applications. The segment benefits from increasing consumer awareness of whey protein's superior amino acid profile and bioavailability compared to plant-based alternatives. Milk protein concentrates and isolates are gaining traction as manufacturers seek ingredients that provide both functional and nutritional benefits in clean-label formulations. Lactose and derivatives, while representing a smaller market share, are experiencing renewed interest through innovative applications like lactulose production for prebiotic benefits.

Dairy Ingredients Market: Market Share by Product Type
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Note: Segment shares of all individual segments available upon report purchase

By Nature: Organic Segment Accelerates

Conventional dairy ingredients maintain an 88.72% market share in 2024, reflecting their established supply chains and cost advantages, while organic ingredients achieve the highest growth rate at 6.85% CAGR through 2030, driven by consumer willingness to pay premium prices for perceived health and environmental benefits. The USDA reported a 15.5% increase in organic whole milk sales in September 2024 compared to the previous year, with total organic fluid milk sales reaching 249 million pounds, demonstrating robust consumer demand despite higher price points. Organic milk exports increased by 36.2% year-to-date compared to the previous year, indicating strong international demand for premium dairy ingredients.

The organic segment's growth is supported by expanding retail distribution and increasing availability of organic feed ingredients, which historically constrained production capacity. Conventional ingredients continue to dominate due to their reliability, consistent quality, and established processing infrastructure that supports large-scale manufacturing operations. The price differential between organic and conventional ingredients is narrowing in some regions as organic production scales increase and conventional prices face upward pressure from sustainability requirements. Regulatory frameworks are evolving to support organic certification processes while maintaining stringent quality standards that ensure consumer confidence in premium positioning.

By Livestock Origin: Cow Dominance with Emerging Alternatives

Cow-derived ingredients maintain an 81.13% market share in 2024, reflecting established infrastructure and consumer familiarity, while goat-derived products achieve the fastest growth at 4.17% CAGR, driven by increasing awareness of their digestibility advantages and lower allergenic potential compared to cow milk proteins. Buffalo-derived ingredients represent a smaller but stable market segment, particularly in regions where buffalo farming is traditional and culturally significant. The growth in alternative livestock sources reflects diversification strategies by manufacturers seeking to address lactose intolerance and dairy allergies while maintaining the functional benefits of animal-derived proteins. 

Goat milk's naturally smaller fat globules and different protein structure make it more digestible for some consumers, creating opportunities in infant nutrition and specialty health products. Sheep-derived ingredients, while representing the smallest market share, are gaining attention in artisanal and premium product categories where unique flavor profiles and nutritional characteristics command higher prices. The segment is benefiting from increasing research into the specific health benefits of different livestock sources, creating scientific support for premium positioning and targeted marketing strategies.

Dairy Ingredients Market: Market Share by Livestock Origin
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Note: Segment shares of all individual segments available upon report purchase

By Application: Sports Nutrition Drives Growth

In 2024, bakery and confectionery applications dominate the market, holding a 25.90% share, underscoring the pivotal role of dairy ingredients in enhancing texture, flavor, and shelf life. These ingredients are widely used in baked goods and confectionery products to meet consumer expectations for quality and consistency. Research by Puratos' Taste Tomorrow report from 2024 highlights a rising consumer focus on nutritional balance in chocolate, forecasting a 30% surge in demand for health-centric ingredients like proteins, paving the way for the integration of functional dairy ingredients. This trend reflects a broader shift toward healthier indulgence, where consumers seek products that combine taste with nutritional benefits.

The sports nutrition market exhibits increasing demand for dairy ingredients as consumers require high-quality proteins and functional nutrients for active lifestyles. The sports and clinical nutrition segments are projected to grow at a CAGR of 4.54% through 2030, representing the highest growth rate among dairy ingredient applications. This growth results from consumer requirements for whey proteins, casein, and milk-derived bioactives that enhance muscle recovery, endurance, and performance. Manufacturers are producing dairy-based powders, ready-to-drink shakes, and fortified supplements to address this market demand.

Geography Analysis

Europe holds the largest regional market share at 29.99% in 2024, supported by its advanced processing infrastructure, strict quality standards, and robust consumer demand for premium dairy products. The region's increasing milk production directly contributes to higher dairy ingredient output. The well-established dairy processing facilities, combined with technological advancements in production methods, enable efficient conversion of raw milk into various dairy ingredients. The United Kingdom recorded total milk production of 14,890 million liters in 2024, according to DEFRA data. This substantial production volume underscores the region's capacity to meet both domestic and international demand for dairy ingredients.

The Asia-Pacific region demonstrates the highest growth rate at 5.41% CAGR through 2030, fueled by increasing disposable incomes, population expansion, and growing health consciousness. The region's dairy ingredient market benefits from modernizing production facilities, improving supply chain infrastructure, and rising adoption of Western dietary habits. According to the United States Department of Agriculture [3]Source: U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), "India: Dairy and Products Annual - October 2024", apps.fas.usda.gov , India's milk production is expected to reach 216.5 million metric tons in 2025, bolstered by government support and favorable weather conditions. The country's domestic fluid milk consumption is projected to reach 91 million metric tons. This growth trajectory reflects the region's expanding dairy processing capabilities and increasing consumer preference for dairy-based products.

North America benefits from advanced processing technology and strong domestic demand for protein-rich products, while facing increased competition from plant-based alternatives in urban markets. The region's strength lies in innovation capabilities and established supply chains that support large-scale ingredient production for both domestic and export markets. South America and the Middle East and Africa represent emerging opportunities where rising disposable incomes and urbanization are driving increased dairy consumption, though infrastructure limitations and price sensitivity create challenges for premium ingredient penetration.

Dairy Ingredients Market CAGR (%), Growth Rate by Region
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Competitive Landscape

The dairy ingredients market shows moderate consolidation, with established multinational corporations operating alongside regional players and technology-focused companies. Market dynamics reflect a balanced competitive environment where traditional manufacturers maintain strong positions while adapting to emerging trends. Recent market changes include Arla Foods Ingredients' acquisition of Volac's whey nutrition business in 2024-2025, strengthening its whey protein isolate production capabilities. Companies are increasingly focusing on research and development to maintain their competitive positions in the evolving market landscape.

Companies are differentiating themselves through technological advancements, including precision fermentation, AI-driven processes, and sustainable production methods to serve premium market segments. The integration of advanced technologies has become a key factor in maintaining market competitiveness and meeting evolving consumer demands. Investment in sustainable production methods has emerged as a critical strategy for companies seeking to capture environmentally conscious market segments. These technological innovations are reshaping traditional production processes and creating new opportunities for market growth.

New market opportunities are emerging in precision fermentation, as companies develop alternative protein production methods. Companies like DairyX are pioneering the production of casein proteins without livestock for traditional cheese production, offering sustainable alternatives to conventional supply chains. Companies like NewMoo and Future Cow are leveraging biotechnology and molecular farming to create dairy-identical proteins from plant sources. These innovations are introducing new competitive elements to the ingredient supply chain and challenging established production methods while addressing growing sustainability concerns.

Dairy Ingredients Industry Leaders

  1. Arla Foods amba

  2. Fonterra Co-Operative Group Limited

  3. Saputo Inc.

  4. Groupe Lactalis

  5. Royal Friesland Campina N.V.

  6. *Disclaimer: Major Players sorted in no particular order
Dairy Ingredients Market
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Recent Industry Developments

  • May 2025: New York-based food biotechnology company Pureture commenced commercial production of its alternative casein protein. The protein provided natural emulsification without requiring gums, thickeners, or stabilizers. The product met multiple dietary requirements, being dairy-free, lactose-free, allergen-free, additive-free, and non-GMO.
  • March 2025: Dutch ingredient company Vivici launched Vivitein BLG, a dairy protein manufactured through precision fermentation. The protein was suitable for vegans and could be incorporated into protein powders, nutritional beverages, and various food applications.
  • February 2025: Expana launched two milk concentrates and two whey permeates. The products, manufactured using ultrafiltration and diafiltration processes, were suitable for functional food products and other applications.
  • November 2023: Valio, a Finnish dairy company, introduced Valio Eila MPC 65, a milk protein concentrate. This lactose-free product enhanced digestive comfort and increased protein content in puddings, shakes, ice creams, and beverages.

Table of Contents for Dairy Ingredients Industry Report

1. INTRODUCTION

  • 1.1 Study Assumptions and Market Definition
  • 1.2 Scope of the Study

2. RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

3. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

4. MARKET LANDSCAPE

  • 4.1 Market Overview
  • 4.2 Market Drivers
    • 4.2.1 Rising Demand for Protein-rich Foods
    • 4.2.2 Increasing Adoption in Sports Nutrition Products
    • 4.2.3 Expansion of the Infant Formula Market
    • 4.2.4 Growing Adoption in Functional Food and Beverage Sector
    • 4.2.5 Surging Usage in Bakery and Confectionery Industry
    • 4.2.6 Rising Consumption in Emerging Markets
  • 4.3 Market Restraints
    • 4.3.1 Lactose Intolerance and Dairy Allergies
    • 4.3.2 Growing Popularity of Plant-Based Alternatives
    • 4.3.3 Volatility in Raw Milk Prices
    • 4.3.4 Health-Related Dietary Concerns
  • 4.4 Supply-Chain Analysis
  • 4.5 Regulatory Outlook
  • 4.6 Technological Outlook
  • 4.7 Porter’s Five Forces Analysis
    • 4.7.1 Threat of New Entrants
    • 4.7.2 Bargaining Power of Buyers
    • 4.7.3 Bargaining Power of Suppliers
    • 4.7.4 Threat of Substitutes
    • 4.7.5 Competitive Rivalry

5. MARKET SIZE AND GROWTH FORECASTS (VALUE)

  • 5.1 By Product Type
    • 5.1.1 Milk Powders
    • 5.1.1.1 Skimmed Milk Powder
    • 5.1.1.2 Whole Milk Powder
    • 5.1.1.3 Others
    • 5.1.2 Milk Protein Concentrates and Isolates
    • 5.1.3 Whey Ingredients
    • 5.1.3.1 Whey Protein Concentrate
    • 5.1.3.2 Whey Protein Isolate
    • 5.1.3.3 Hydrolyzed Whey Protein
    • 5.1.4 Lactose and Derivatives
    • 5.1.5 Casein and Caseinates
    • 5.1.6 Others
  • 5.2 By Nature
    • 5.2.1 Conventional
    • 5.2.2 Organic
  • 5.3 By Livestock Origin
    • 5.3.1 Cow
    • 5.3.2 Buffalo
    • 5.3.3 Goat and Sheep
  • 5.4 By Application
    • 5.4.1 Bakery and Confectionery
    • 5.4.2 Dairy Products
    • 5.4.3 Infant Milk Formula
    • 5.4.4 Sports and Clinical Nutrition
    • 5.4.5 Convenience and Ready-to-Eat Foods
    • 5.4.6 Other Applications
  • 5.5 By Geography
    • 5.5.1 North America
    • 5.5.1.1 United States
    • 5.5.1.2 Canada
    • 5.5.1.3 Mexico
    • 5.5.1.4 Rest of North America
    • 5.5.2 Europe
    • 5.5.2.1 United Kingdom
    • 5.5.2.2 Germany
    • 5.5.2.3 France
    • 5.5.2.4 Italy
    • 5.5.2.5 Spain
    • 5.5.2.6 Netherlands
    • 5.5.2.7 Poland
    • 5.5.2.8 Belgium
    • 5.5.2.9 Sweden
    • 5.5.2.10 Rest of Europe
    • 5.5.3 Asia-Pacific
    • 5.5.3.1 China
    • 5.5.3.2 India
    • 5.5.3.3 Japan
    • 5.5.3.4 Australia
    • 5.5.3.5 Indonesia
    • 5.5.3.6 South Korea
    • 5.5.3.7 Thailand
    • 5.5.3.8 Singapore
    • 5.5.3.9 Rest of Asia-Pacific
    • 5.5.4 South America
    • 5.5.4.1 Brazil
    • 5.5.4.2 Argentina
    • 5.5.4.3 Colombia
    • 5.5.4.4 Peru
    • 5.5.4.5 Chile
    • 5.5.4.6 Rest of South America
    • 5.5.5 Middle East and Africa
    • 5.5.5.1 Saudi Arabia
    • 5.5.5.2 United Arab Emirates
    • 5.5.5.3 South Africa
    • 5.5.5.4 Nigeria
    • 5.5.5.5 Egypt
    • 5.5.5.6 Morocco
    • 5.5.5.7 Turkey
    • 5.5.5.8 Rest of Middle East and Africa

6. COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE

  • 6.1 Market Concentration
  • 6.2 Strategic Moves
  • 6.3 Market Rank Analysis
  • 6.4 Company Profiles (includes Global Level Overview, Market Level Overview, Core Segments, Financials, Strategic Info, Market Rank/Share, Products & Services, Recent Developments)
    • 6.4.1 Arla Foods amba
    • 6.4.2 Fonterra Co-operative Group Ltd
    • 6.4.3 Royal FrieslandCampina N.V.
    • 6.4.4 Groupe Lactalis (Lactalis Ingredients)
    • 6.4.5 Kerry Group plc
    • 6.4.6 Dairy Farmers of America Inc.
    • 6.4.7 Saputo Inc.
    • 6.4.8 Glanbia plc
    • 6.4.9 Nestlé S.A.
    • 6.4.10 Danone S.A.
    • 6.4.11 Agropur Co-operative
    • 6.4.12 Hilmar Cheese Company Inc.
    • 6.4.13 Cargill Inc.
    • 6.4.14 Sodiaal Group
    • 6.4.15 Volac International Ltd
    • 6.4.16 Hoogwegt International B.V.
    • 6.4.17 Kanegrade Ltd
    • 6.4.18 Valio Ltd
    • 6.4.19 DMK Group
    • 6.4.20 Meggle Group

7. MARKET OPPORTUNITIES AND FUTURE OUTLOOK

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Global Dairy Ingredients Market Report Scope

Dairy ingredients, such as milk powder, milk protein concentrate, whey protein, and casein, are a rich source of essential nutrients, including proteins, amino acids, carbohydrates, minerals, and probiotics. Each of these ingredients has wide applications in the food and beverage industries, including bakery products, confectionery, sports nutrition, and infant formulas.

The dairy ingredients market is segmented by type, application, and geography. Based on type, the market is segmented into milk powders, milk protein concentrates and milk protein isolates, whey ingredients, lactose and derivatives, casein and caseinates, and other types. The whey ingredients segment is further segmented into whey protein concentrate, whey protein isolate, and hydrolyzed whey protein. Based on application, the market is segmented into bakery and confectionery, dairy products, infant milk formula, sports and clinical nutrition, and other applications. Based on geography, the market is segmented into North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, South America, and Middle-East and Africa.

 For each segment, the market sizing and forecasts have been done on the basis of value (in USD million).

By Product Type Milk Powders Skimmed Milk Powder
Whole Milk Powder
Others
Milk Protein Concentrates and Isolates
Whey Ingredients Whey Protein Concentrate
Whey Protein Isolate
Hydrolyzed Whey Protein
Lactose and Derivatives
Casein and Caseinates
Others
By Nature Conventional
Organic
By Livestock Origin Cow
Buffalo
Goat and Sheep
By Application Bakery and Confectionery
Dairy Products
Infant Milk Formula
Sports and Clinical Nutrition
Convenience and Ready-to-Eat Foods
Other Applications
By Geography North America United States
Canada
Mexico
Rest of North America
Europe United Kingdom
Germany
France
Italy
Spain
Netherlands
Poland
Belgium
Sweden
Rest of Europe
Asia-Pacific China
India
Japan
Australia
Indonesia
South Korea
Thailand
Singapore
Rest of Asia-Pacific
South America Brazil
Argentina
Colombia
Peru
Chile
Rest of South America
Middle East and Africa Saudi Arabia
United Arab Emirates
South Africa
Nigeria
Egypt
Morocco
Turkey
Rest of Middle East and Africa
By Product Type
Milk Powders Skimmed Milk Powder
Whole Milk Powder
Others
Milk Protein Concentrates and Isolates
Whey Ingredients Whey Protein Concentrate
Whey Protein Isolate
Hydrolyzed Whey Protein
Lactose and Derivatives
Casein and Caseinates
Others
By Nature
Conventional
Organic
By Livestock Origin
Cow
Buffalo
Goat and Sheep
By Application
Bakery and Confectionery
Dairy Products
Infant Milk Formula
Sports and Clinical Nutrition
Convenience and Ready-to-Eat Foods
Other Applications
By Geography
North America United States
Canada
Mexico
Rest of North America
Europe United Kingdom
Germany
France
Italy
Spain
Netherlands
Poland
Belgium
Sweden
Rest of Europe
Asia-Pacific China
India
Japan
Australia
Indonesia
South Korea
Thailand
Singapore
Rest of Asia-Pacific
South America Brazil
Argentina
Colombia
Peru
Chile
Rest of South America
Middle East and Africa Saudi Arabia
United Arab Emirates
South Africa
Nigeria
Egypt
Morocco
Turkey
Rest of Middle East and Africa
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Key Questions Answered in the Report

What is the current size of the dairy ingredients market?

The dairy ingredients market is valued at USD 65.01 billion in 2025 and is projected to reach USD 76.86 billion by 2030.

Which product type holds the largest share?

Milk powders lead with 45.56% of 2024 share and remain the fastest-growing category at a 3.61% CAGR through 2030.

Which region is growing the fastest?

Asia-Pacific shows the strongest trajectory with a forecast 5.41% CAGR, supported by rising income levels and government investment in milk infrastructure.

Why is goat milk gaining attention?

Goat-derived ingredients are expected to grow at 4.17% CAGR due to superior digestibility and lower allergenic potential, appealing to sensitive consumer segments.

Page last updated on: July 4, 2025

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