“Adoption of Plant-Based Ingredient Innovations for Enhanced Nutritional Value and Taste”
- A key trend in the dairy alternative market is the rapid innovation in plant-based ingredients aimed at improving both the nutritional profile and sensory experience of dairy-free products
- New base ingredients such as chickpeas, flaxseed, hemp, and watermelon seeds are being explored beyond traditional soy, almond, and oat to deliver better protein content, creaminess, and micronutrient richness
- Fermentation techniques and enzymatic processing are increasingly employed to enhance digestibility, texture, and flavor in dairy alternatives, mimicking the taste and mouthfeel of conventional dairy
- For instance, An April 2025 article by Guardian News & Media Limited says that Oat milk has become the UK's most popular plant-based milk, accounting for about 40% of the market by volume. Brands like Alpro, owned by Danone, are emphasizing local sourcing by using British-grown oats processed at the high-tech Navara Oat Milling factory. This move supports the growing demand, with supermarket oat milk sales rising 7.2% in the year to February 2025.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Asia-Pacific region is expected to register the fastest growth in the dairy alternatives market, driven by increasing lactose intolerance rates, urbanization, and shifting dietary preferences
A key trend in the dairy alternative market is the rapid innovation in plant-based ingredients aimed at improving both the nutritional profile and sensory experience of dairy-free products
The major factors driving the growth of the Dairy alternative market are the rising lactose intolerance and demand for plant-based nutrition and increasing health consciousness across the globe.
The primary challenges are the higher price point and regulatory frameworks for novel vegan products
In 2025, the soy milk segment is expected to dominate the global dairy alternatives market due to its long-established presence, high nutritional value, and affordability compared to other plant-based milk alternatives. Soy milk is rich in protein and has a similar texture and flavor to cow's milk, making it a popular choice among consumers seeking a dairy-free option with a balanced nutrient profile.
