PUBLISHER: Fortune Business Insights Pvt. Ltd. | PRODUCT CODE: 1876148
PUBLISHER: Fortune Business Insights Pvt. Ltd. | PRODUCT CODE: 1876148
The global infant formula ingredients and products market continues to grow steadily, driven by increasing awareness of infant nutrition, rising female workforce participation, and technological advancements in formula composition. According to Fortune Business Insights, the market was valued at USD 74.94 billion in 2024, is projected to reach USD 77.64 billion in 2025, and is estimated to expand to USD 109.70 billion by 2032, reflecting a CAGR of 5.06% during the forecast period (2025-2032). Asia Pacific dominated the global landscape in 2024, accounting for 66.2% of the market share, with a valuation of USD 49.61 billion, underscoring the region's strong consumer base and growing focus on infant health and wellness.
Infant formula products are designed to serve as alternatives to breast milk, providing balanced nutrition through key ingredients such as proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals. These formulas are often derived from cow's milk but can also be sourced from soy, goat milk, and other plant-based materials. The market is being driven by global players like Nestle S.A., Abbott, Danone S.A., and Reckitt Benckiser Group plc, who continue to introduce advanced products catering to infants with diverse dietary and medical needs.
Market Dynamics
Market Drivers - Growing Parental Awareness and Demand for Specialized Formulas
Rising parental awareness about the importance of infant nutrition has significantly fueled the demand for scientifically formulated products that closely resemble human milk. Increasingly health-conscious parents in Asia, the Middle East, and North America are seeking formulas enriched with HMOs (Human Milk Oligosaccharides), prebiotics, and Lactoferrin, which support immunity and digestive health.
The demand for specialty infant formulas is another key growth driver. As the prevalence of lactose intolerance and food allergies among infants rises, manufacturers are launching innovative lactose-free, hypoallergenic, and plant-based products. For instance, in September 2024, Perrigo Company plc partnered with Dr. Brown's Company and Good Start to introduce a 100% plant-based, lactose-free infant formula available through major U.S. retailers such as Walmart, Kroger, and Amazon. These specialized solutions help infants with allergies or sensitivities, supporting market expansion worldwide.
Market Restraints - High Production Costs and Ingredient Price Volatility
Despite strong demand, the high manufacturing costs of infant formula ingredients-driven by the procurement of high-quality milk powder, vegetable oils, and vitamins-pose a significant challenge. Price fluctuations in raw materials, especially organic and specialty components, combined with supply chain disruptions and energy cost increases, have impacted production margins.
Market Opportunities - Technological Innovations in Formula Development
Technological advancements have opened new avenues for market expansion. Cutting-edge production techniques such as microfiltration, supercritical fluid extraction, and fermentation-based synthesis are enabling the creation of ingredients that mimic human milk properties more closely than ever before. For example, in April 2020, Conagen Inc. developed Lactoferrin-a key protein for infant immunity-using fermentation technology, reducing dependence on traditional dairy sources and lowering production costs.
Market Trends
Emerging Preference for Human-Milk-Mimicking Ingredients
Consumers increasingly favor infant formulas enriched with components that replicate the nutritional structure of human milk. Ingredients such as OPO (Structured Lipids), HMOs, and A2 B-casein proteins are gaining traction, particularly in China, India, and Southeast Asia. In October 2023, International Flavors & Fragrances (IFF), DSM-Firmenich, and Mengniu received regulatory approval to use HMOs and probiotics in infant formula production in China, signaling a shift toward premium, biologically advanced formulations.
By Ingredient Type:
In 2024, carbohydrates held the largest share of the global infant formula ingredients market, as they serve as the primary energy source for infants. Lactose supports brain development and nutrient absorption, making it an essential component in most formulas. Fats accounted for the second-largest share, contributing 40-45% of infants' caloric intake and promoting nervous system development. Proteins, crucial for tissue growth and repair, held the third-largest share. The prebiotics and probiotics segment is projected to grow the fastest through 2032, supported by ongoing innovations targeting gut and immune health.
By Product Type:
The specialty formula segment dominated the market in 2024, addressing specific dietary needs such as allergies, metabolic disorders, and premature birth nutrition. The HMO-enriched formula segment represents the fastest-growing category, driven by its similarity to natural breast milk composition and its ability to enhance infants' immune and digestive systems. In March 2023, Danone launched Pepticate, a hypoallergenic hydrolyzed powdered formula in the U.S., to cater to infants with cow's milk allergies.
Asia Pacific - The Leading Market in 2024
Asia Pacific held the dominant share with a market value of USD 49.61 billion in 2024, driven by increasing female workforce participation, rapid urbanization, and expanding middle-class populations. Countries such as China, India, and Indonesia are witnessing a strong demand for premium and specialized infant nutrition products. The Chinese government's two-child policy reform has also stimulated birth rates, leading to higher product consumption. According to the World Bank, increasing women's workforce participation could enhance the region's GDP by 51%, indirectly boosting the infant formula market.
North America:
Following the 2022 infant formula shortage in the U.S., manufacturers are strengthening local supply chains and safety regulations to ensure product stability. Domestic production and government intervention continue to shape the region's recovery and supply consistency.
Europe:
European consumers show a strong inclination toward organic and additive-free formulas, with growing adoption of HMO- and A2-protein-based products. Premium offerings targeting lactose intolerance and allergy management are driving steady regional growth.
South America:
The region's stable birth rates and rising disposable incomes are fueling demand for functional, plant-based soy formulas. Manufacturers in Brazil and Argentina are focusing on positioning their products with claims such as "supports bone health" and "gentle on the stomach" to attract health-conscious parents.
Middle East & Africa:
The increasing expatriate population and demand for premium imported infant formulas are contributing to market expansion, especially in the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia.
Competitive Landscape
The market features strong competition among leading companies such as Nestle S.A. (Switzerland), Abbott (U.S.), Danone S.A. (France), Reckitt Benckiser Group plc (U.K.), and Junlebao Dairy Group (China). Other notable players include Fonterra Co-operative Group Limited, DSM-Firmenich, Cargill, Inc., Almarai, and FrieslandCampina N.V.
Recent Industry Developments:
Conclusion
The global infant formula ingredients and products market is set to expand from USD 74.94 billion in 2024 to USD 109.70 billion by 2032, reflecting sustained growth across all regions. Rising consumer awareness, technological innovation, and premiumization trends are reshaping the infant nutrition industry. With Asia Pacific leading the charge and Western markets focusing on safety, sustainability, and advanced formulations, the sector is poised to achieve strong, innovation-driven growth throughout the 2025-2032 period.
Segmentation By Ingredient Type
By Product Type
By Region