Infant Formula Ingredients Market Size, Share, and Trends 2026 to 2035

Revenue, 2025

USD 24.95 Bn

Forecast Year, 2035

USD 61.07 Bn

CAGR, 2026 - 2035

9.36%

Report Coverage

Global

What is the Infant Formula Ingredients Market Size?

The global infant formula ingredients market size is calculated at USD 24.95 billion in 2025 and is predicted to increase from USD 27.32 billion in 2026 to approximately USD 61.07 billion by 2035, expanding at a CAGR of 9.36% from 2026 to 2035.

Infant Formula Ingredients Market Key Takeaways

• Asia Pacific led the global market with the highest market share of 40% in 2025.
• By type, the infant milk formula segment captured the biggest revenue share over the projected period.
• By distribution channel, the hypermarkets and supermarkets segment registered the maximum market share over the projected period.

Ensuring Infant Health: Growth and Challenges in the Infant Formula Ingredients Market

Infant formula food is a product that takes care of the nutrition of an infant during its growing years. It mainly concentrates on providing all the vitamins and minerals along with the rare ones in the correct quantities required for the body of the infant at that particular age. Trick rules and regulations have been devise by the government and various other bodies such as the FSSAI and WHO, which have a separate set of guidelines regarding these food products for the younger age groups in order to maintain their health and immunity. During recent research, various conditions have come up where individual infants was intolerant to lactose. For such conditions, lactose-free formulated food was developed by taking special care regarding the intolerant behavior of the body.

Pertaining to the lack of nutritious food consumed by pregnant female and the other developmental disorders taking place during pregnancy the rate of premature births have increased to a great extent. This development has been dealt with the help of premature infant milk substitutes that are mainly formulated to take care of the lakh in nutrients suffered by the body of the infant and does help it to develop correctly before major pathological changes take place. The increase in the number of cases of malnutrition among infants has encouraged the market to produce formula foods for special medical conditions where the required need for nutrition is fulfilled to develop the health of the infants and lead a normal life.

The outbreak of the pandemic could not make a significant decline in the market owing to the constant demand for formulated food products for infants. However, the supply chain of the formulated products was hampered to a certain extent because of the strict lockdowns that were imposed in certain regions of the world in order to restrict the spread of infection. The increasing awareness regarding the development of infants has helped the market to grow over a period of time. The guardians of the infants have opted for additional foods in order to avoid the deficiencies caused due to lack of nutritive food products. This disruption in the demand and supply chain in the market had put a negative effect on the overall growth of the industry.

The high cost associated with these formulated food products has hampered the growth of the market during the forecast period. The lower socio-economic group is not very comfortable purchasing these costly formulated food products. The developing and underdeveloped countries hence do not show significant growth in the market for these food products. On the other hand, developed countries are showing significant growth in the market for formulated food. Increasing the basic body construction is taken into consideration in the long-term use of the formulated food products hampers the growth of the child due to the presence of preservatives in these products. It makes the infant dependent on such food products and the affinity towards the normal nutritious food is hampered. Also, a number of pathological changes take place inside the body due to the long-term use of these formulated products.

Infant Formula Ingredients Market Growth Factors

The rapid research and development which is carried out by the market leaders in order to boost the market for the formatted food products has helped to increase in the revenue. The promises made regarding the fulfillment of the nutrition required by the body of the infant is a potent marketing strategy used by the market players. The early shift to a formulated food product act as a breast milk substitute in the developing period of the infant. As a result, the fertility rate in the world has been propelled considerably. According to the developing lifestyle of the people the dependence on formulated food products has increased, pertaining to the increased workload of the guardians and busy lifestyle. The rapid urbanization of the world has also helped to boost the market due to increasing dependence on substitutes instead of the traditional ways of breastfeeding. The heavy investments made by the market leaders in order to popularize the formulated food products have also been a great driving factor for increasing the revenue of the market. The recent developments of innovative products are also proving to be a driving factor for the current market.

The rise in the modern lifestyle has led to a growing number of females in the current generation. Additionally, the unsupportive work culture of the companies forces the guardians to switch to formula food products in order to fulfill the nutrition requirements of the child without investing much time into their food habits. The increase in the number of females going for work has given rise to the disposable income capacity of the people which makes them capable to purchase formula food products and other artificially packed nutritive supplements. The unavailability of a supportive system and of a qualified lactation expert has encouraged the guardians to shift to formula food products instead of traditional breastfeeding techniques. The lack of nutrition among the infant group has helped the market to show a considerable increase in revenue as it has promised to fulfill this void. The rise in the number of medications available for increasing lactation has made in people averse to opt for such treatments.

Additionally, the medical fraternity has also helped to boost the market for formula-based products by making it as a compulsory post-delivery protocol to be followed by the lactating mother for the development of the infant. According to the statistics the number of lactating females performing breastfeeding for their infants is sub-optimal in comparison to the normal ranges which are expected to take place. A huge number of breast-feeding mothers voluntarily choose formula product foods over the traditional pattern of breastfeeding to have an is your lifestyle and to avoid the hard work which lies behind planning and feeding nutritive meals to their children. These multiple factors which are supported by the modern attitude of the breastfeeding mothers, the uncompromised lifestyle of the working females, non-cooperative work environment delivered by the companies, promise Singh product quality of the formula food manufacturers, voluntary backup provided by the medical fraternity to the formula food industry, increasing research and development in order to manufacture better quality products and the government support help the formula food products market to boost during the forecast period.

Market Scope

Market Dynamics

Drivers

The nutrition requirement of an infant is the primary focus of a guardian which cannot be neglected at any cost. Hence the formula food market experience is tremendous growth in developing and underdeveloped nations where there is a huge walking class of people who are lactating and breastfeeding mothers. Moreover, as a result of the busy lifestyle that people have opted for, there is very little time existing for the preparation of a nutritious meal for the infant. Hence the guardian opts for early weaning for the infant resulting in an increased share of infant formula food products. The medical fraternity has openly supported the use of formula-based products to maintain the nutrition of premature and underdeveloped infants. In order to avoid the risk of malnutrition among infants the use of formula-based products is encouraged so that the entire package of Nutrition is provided at one go without any chances of failure. This has helped to reduce the rate of malnutrition to a great extent.

Restraints

The cost of formulated food products for infants is very high. As a result of this the population belonging to developing nations and underdeveloped countries cannot afford it for a long period of time. They constantly wait to shift to the local alternative which hampers sales in the long run and thus the market declines in these regions. The expenses over these formulated food products impose an additional load over the disposable income of the people. Hence a drop in sales becomes a restraining factor for the market. Artificial food products contain a number of preservatives that hampers the health of infants in the long run. Lack of appetite and constant habit of formulated food products makes the child averse to common local food products which hamper the immunity of the child. This becomes a great concern for the market owing to the increasing awareness about health in this post covid phase of the market. The outbreak of the pandemic did not have a significant impact on the infant formula food products market but has reduced the supply chain owing to the constant lockdowns and restricted movement of people.

Opportunities

The increasing number of working females has reduced the time the mother can devote to their infants. This has turned out to be a great opportunity for the market. The guardians tend to shift to the weaning phase at an early period which results in the adoption of various formula-based food products. The adoption of milk-based food products helps to make the child or infant feel a satisfied stomach which keeps them calm. It also supplies the infant with all the essential nutrients that are required for the overall development of the body at their particular age which has not been fulfilled by the regular diet that is provided to them on the daily basis. These multiple factors have proved to be great opportunities for the market during the forecast period.

Challenges

The Increasing Demand For Natural And Healthy Food Products Has Declined The Market For Formula-Based Food Products. The Occurrence Of The Pandemic Had Created An Awareness Among The People Regarding The Side Effects Of Preservatives And The Negative Influence It Has On The Immune System Of The Individual. This Has Hampered The Sales Of The Artificial Formula Food Products Which Contain Food Grade Preservatives In Them To Help It To Remain Edible For A Longer Period Of Time. The High Cost Of The Food Product For Infants Has Imposed A Burden Over The People Belonging To The Lower Socioeconomic Class. As A Result, Not Many People Can Contribute To The Growth Of The Industry. Various Health Problems Created By The Formula Food Products In The Digestive System Of The Infants Have Become A Challenge For The Growth Of The Market. These Multiple Factors Have Hampered The Growth And Challenged The Revenue Returns Of The Market During The Forecast Period.

Segment Insights

Type Insights

The milk formula which has been specially designed for infants has seen tremendous growth during the forecast period. It has seen a potential value-based sale and helped the market to make a strong foothold. There are not many variations available to the guardians regarding formula foods and products. Milk being a basic food product that can be fed to the newborn helps the market to make its place easily. The presence of micronutrients such as iron calcium carbohydrates and proteins help to make an easy shift from traditional breastfeeding techniques to formula food products. Thus, the basic nutrient requirement of the infant is met with easily without compromising the professional life of the mother. There is a lack of nutrition provided to the infant during the weaning period which is fulfilled with the help of formula food products.

Distribution Channel Insights

The vast availability of formulated food products for infants as a result of the rapid organization has helped to boost the market availability of formula foods in hypermarkets and supermarkets increasing their sales rapidly. The multiple offers and schemes put up by the superstores in order to boost the sales of these products help to increase the revenue of the company. The presence of a specialist who helps the customers who choose the least formula food products helps the consumer to gain confidence in experimenting with them for their infants.

The other outlets which help to boost the market are pharmacies, medical stores, and other such small-scale outlets. These small outlets provide the actual business which is unseen due to their small size but make great sales as they are providing the regular consumers on a daily basis. The presence of a variety of baby products along with their nutritional supplements under one roof helps to boost the market for formula food products to a great extent during the forecast period.

Regional Insights

Asia Pacific Infant Formula Ingredients Market Size and Growth 2026 to 2035

The Asia Pacific infant formula ingredients market size is estimated at USD 9.98 billion in 2025 and is predicted to be worth around USD 24.42 billion by 2035, at a CAGR of 9.40% from 2026 to 2035.

The Asia Pacific region held the highest revenue share of more than 40% in 2025. The developing countries belonging to this region help to boost the market on account of the number of working females residing in this area. Countries like China who have abolished the system of one child and have opted for increasing the population which has shown a positive impact on the sales and supply of formulated food products.

India Infant Formula Ingredients Market Analysis

The market in India is expanding due to rising awareness among parents of proper infant nutrition and the increasing prevalence of malnutrition and lactose intolerance. Growing urbanization, higher disposable incomes, and an expanding middle class are boosting demand for premium and specialized formula products. Additionally, increasing healthcare initiatives, easy availability of fortified ingredients, and a focus on infant health and development are driving market growth in India.

What Makes North America the Fastest-Growing Region in the Infant Formula Ingredients Market?

North America is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR during the forecast period, driven by rising awareness of infant nutrition, increasing demand for specialized and fortified formula products, and higher disposable incomes. Strong healthcare infrastructure, widespread adoption of premium and organic infant formulas, and regulatory support for fortified ingredients are key drivers. Additionally, the growing prevalence of lactose intolerance, premature births, and chronic health conditions in infants is boosting demand for advanced formula ingredients.

U.S. Infant Formula Ingredients Market Analysis

The U.S. infant formula ingredients market is expanding due to increasing awareness of infant nutrition, rising demand for fortified and specialized formulas, and higher disposable incomes. Parents are seeking products that support healthy growth, cognitive development, and immunity. Additionally, strong healthcare infrastructure, widespread adoption of organic and premium formulas, and regulatory support for high-quality ingredients are driving market growth, while the prevalence of lactose intolerance and premature births further boosts demand.

Europe: A Notably Growing Region in the Market

Europe is expected to grow at a notable rate due to increasing awareness of infant health, rising demand for specialized and fortified formula products, and supportive regulatory frameworks. Growth in organic and premium infant nutrition products, combined with higher disposable incomes and a focus on early childhood development, is driving market expansion. Additionally, the increasing prevalence of lactose intolerance, premature births, and chronic infant health conditions further contributes to the rising demand for advanced formula ingredients.

UK Infant Formula Ingredients Market Analysis

The market in the UK is expanding due to growing parental awareness of proper infant nutrition and the benefits of fortified and specialized formulas. Rising demand for organic and premium products, higher disposable incomes, and a focus on early childhood development are driving growth. Additionally, government regulations ensuring high-quality ingredients, along with the prevalence of lactose intolerance and health concerns in infants, are further boosting market demand.

What Potentiates the Market in the Middle East & Africa?

The infant formula ingredients market in the Middle East & Africa is growing due to rising demand for fortified infant food products, driven by the growing female working population. The increasing health awareness among people has also led to a surge in demand for these formula products. The growing craze for the Western lifestyle and the shift toward it have helped strengthen market growth in the region. The rising economies of developing nations have proved a boon to the market during the forecast period.

How is the Opportunistic Rise of Latin America in the Infant Formula Ingredients Market?

Latin America is witnessing an opportunistic rise in the market due to increasing birth rates, rising middle-class incomes, and growing awareness of infant nutrition. The region benefits from expanding dairy production, local manufacturing capabilities, and supportive government policies promoting food safety and nutrition. Additionally, multinational companies are investing in Latin America to tap into the growing demand, driving market expansion and innovation.

Value Chain Analysis

Manufacturing: Infant formula is produced by blending essential ingredients, pasteurizing, homogenizing, spray-drying, and ensuring strict quality control.

• Key players: Nestlé, Abbott Laboratories, and Danone.

Branding and Packaging:Branding and packaging of infant formula ingredients must comply with strict regulations (FDA and global standards) while building parental trust.

• Key players: Nestlé, Abbott Laboratories, Danone, Mead Johnson, and FrieslandCampina.

Retail Distribution: Infant formula ingredients are distributed through supermarkets, hypermarkets, online platforms, and direct-to-consumer channels.

• Key players:Nestlé, Danone, Abbott, Fonterra, DSM, Kerry Group.

Top Companies in the Market & Their Offerings

• BASF SE: Provides nutritional ingredients, vitamins, and specialty chemicals for infant formula, functional foods, and dietary supplements, focusing on safety, quality, and innovation in health and nutrition.
• Royal FrieslandCampina N.V.: Produces dairy-based ingredients, including milk powders and proteins, for infant formula, beverages, and nutritional products, emphasizing quality, sustainability, and traceability.
• SACHSENMILCH LEPPERSDORF GMBH: Offers milk powders, whey proteins, and other dairy ingredients for infant nutrition, functional foods, and dairy applications, ensuring high quality and nutritional value.
• Vitablend Nederland BV: Specializes in customized vitamin and mineral premixes, nutritional blends, and functional ingredients for infant formula, food, and beverage applications.
• Carbery Food Ingredients Limited: Provides dairy-based functional ingredients such as proteins, concentrates, and powders for infant formula, sports nutrition, and general food applications.
• Chr. Hansen Holding A/S: Supplies probiotics, cultures, and bioactive ingredients for infant formula, dairy, and functional foods, enhancing nutrition, gut health, and product stability.

Other Major Companies

• Fonterra Co-operative Group Limited
• Koninklijke DSM N.V.
• AAK
• Arla Foods amba

Segments Covered in the Report

By Type

• Infant Milk Formula
• Follow-on Milk
• Others

By Distribution Channel

• Hypermarkets
• Supermarkets
• Pharmacy
• Medical Store
• Specialty Store
• Others

By Geography

• North America
• Europe
• Asia-Pacific
• Latin America
• Middle East & Africa (MEA)