Global Rennet Market Size, Share, and Trends Analysis Report – Industry Overview and Forecast to 2033

Rennet Market Size

• The global rennet market size was valued at USD 962.98 million in 2025 and is expected to reach USD 1,406.58 million by 2033, at a CAGR of 4.85% during the forecast period
• The market growth is largely fuelled by increasing global cheese consumption, rising demand for dairy-based products, and expanding food processing industries
• Growing adoption of natural and microbial rennet in specialty and artisanal cheese production is further supporting market expansion

Rennet Market Analysis

• The market is witnessing strong growth due to the increasing popularity of cheese and other dairy products across both developed and emerging economies
• Rising preference for natural and microbial rennet over animal-derived sources is encouraging manufacturers to invest in alternative production methods and product innovations
• North America dominated the rennet market with the largest revenue share of 38.45% in 2025, driven by high cheese consumption, established dairy industries, and the growing demand for specialty and artisan cheese products
• Asia-Pacific region is expected to witness the highest growth rate in the global rennet market, driven by increasing disposable incomes, expanding dairy industry, growing Western dietary influence, and rising awareness of vegetarian-friendly and sustainable rennet alternatives
• The Animal Derived Rennet segment held the largest market revenue share in 2025, driven by its long-standing usage in traditional cheese production and its ability to deliver consistent texture and flavor. Animal-derived rennet remains the preferred choice for premium cheeses, especially in regions with a strong dairy tradition

Report Scope and Rennet Market Segmentation         

Rennet Market Trends

“Rising Demand for Natural And Specialty Cheese Production”

• The growing focus on natural and artisanal cheese products is significantly shaping the global rennet market, as manufacturers and consumers increasingly prefer natural, microbial, or vegetable-derived rennet over conventional animal-based options. Rennet is gaining traction due to its ability to improve coagulation, texture, and flavor development in cheese, supporting consistent quality across dairy products

• Increasing awareness around clean-label, vegetarian, and specialty cheese products has accelerated the demand for microbial and plant-based rennet in cheese, yogurt, and other fermented dairy products. Dairy producers are actively seeking rennet solutions that enhance functional performance while aligning with sustainability and dietary preferences

• Clean-label and sustainability trends are influencing purchasing decisions, with dairy processors emphasizing traceable sourcing, eco-friendly production, and certification compliance. These factors help brands differentiate products in competitive markets, foster consumer trust, and drive the adoption of microbial or vegetable-based rennet

• For instance, in 2024, Fonterra in New Zealand and Lactalis in France expanded their product lines by incorporating microbial and plant-based rennet in specialty cheese production. These launches were introduced in response to rising consumer preference for natural and sustainable ingredients, with distribution across retail, specialty cheese shops, and online channels

• While demand for rennet is growing, sustained market expansion depends on continuous R&D, cost-efficient production, and maintaining functional performance comparable to traditional animal rennet. Manufacturers are also focusing on supply chain reliability, product consistency, and innovative extraction methods to balance cost, quality, and sustainability

Rennet Market Dynamics

Driver

“Rising Preference For Microbial And Vegetable Rennet”

• Growing consumer and manufacturer demand for natural, vegetarian, and clean-label cheese products is a major driver for the rennet market. Dairy manufacturers are increasingly replacing animal-derived rennet with microbial or plant-based alternatives to meet regulatory and consumer expectations while ensuring consistent cheese quality

• Expanding applications in cheese, yogurt, and fermented dairy products are influencing market growth. Rennet supports coagulation, texture, and flavor development while maintaining product authenticity, enabling manufacturers to meet consumer expectations for high-quality and specialty dairy products

• Dairy companies are actively promoting microbial and vegetable rennet-based formulations through product innovation, marketing campaigns, and industry certifications. These efforts are supported by growing awareness of vegetarian-friendly ingredients, sustainability concerns, and clean-label trends

• For instance, in 2023, Arla Foods in Denmark and Emmi Group in Switzerland reported increased use of microbial rennet in specialty cheese and yogurt production. This followed growing consumer preference for vegetarian and clean-label dairy products, driving repeat purchases and product differentiation. Companies also highlighted sustainability and traceability in marketing campaigns to enhance consumer trust and brand loyalty

• Although rising clean-label and vegetarian trends support growth, wider adoption depends on production cost, rennet availability, and scalable manufacturing processes. Investment in supply chain efficiency, sustainable sourcing, and advanced formulation technology will be critical for meeting global demand and maintaining competitive advantage

Restraint/Challenge

“Higher Cost And Supply Constraints Compared To Traditional Animal Rennet”

• The relatively higher cost of microbial and vegetable rennet compared to conventional animal rennet remains a key challenge, limiting adoption among price-sensitive manufacturers. Complex production processes and higher raw material costs contribute to elevated pricing

• Awareness and understanding of functional benefits remain uneven in emerging markets, particularly where traditional animal rennet is widely used. Limited knowledge restricts adoption across certain cheese and dairy categories, slowing market penetration

• Supply chain and quality challenges also impact market growth, as microbial and plant-based rennet require certified sources and adherence to stringent quality standards. Production, storage, and transport requirements increase operational costs for manufacturers

• For instance, in 2024, distributors in Southeast Asia supplying microbial rennet for artisanal cheese reported slower uptake due to higher prices and limited awareness of functional benefits compared to traditional rennet. Cold storage and certification compliance were additional barriers, affecting product availability and visibility in retail and foodservice channels

• Overcoming these challenges will require cost-efficient production, expanded distribution networks, and educational initiatives for manufacturers and consumers. Collaboration with dairy producers, ingredient suppliers, and certification bodies can help unlock long-term growth potential. Developing cost-competitive rennet formulations while emphasizing functional and sustainability benefits will be essential for broader adoption

Rennet Market Scope

The market is segmented on the basis of type, source, form, and applications

• By Type

On the basis of type, the rennet market is segmented into Animal Derived Rennet, Microbial Rennet, FPC (Fermentation Produced Chymosin) Rennet, and Vegetable Rennet. The Animal Derived Rennet segment held the largest market revenue share in 2025, driven by its long-standing usage in traditional cheese production and its ability to deliver consistent texture and flavor. Animal-derived rennet remains the preferred choice for premium cheeses, especially in regions with a strong dairy tradition.

The Microbial Rennet segment is expected to witness the fastest growth rate from 2026 to 2033, driven by increasing vegetarian and vegan demand as well as advancements in fermentation technology. Microbial rennet offers a cost-effective and sustainable alternative to animal rennet, providing versatility across different cheese types while aligning with clean-label trends.

• By Source

On the basis of source, the rennet market is segmented into Animal and Microbial. The Animal segment dominated the market in 2025 due to its established use in cheese-making and the perceived authenticity it brings to traditional dairy products.

The Microbial segment is expected to witness the fastest growth from 2026 to 2033, supported by rising vegetarian consumption and expanding applications in industrial cheese manufacturing, where consistency and scalability are critical.

• By Form

On the basis of form, the rennet market is segmented into Liquid, Powder, and Paste. The Liquid segment held the largest market share in 2025, driven by its easy handling, accurate dosing, and suitability for large-scale cheese production. Liquid rennet is widely preferred by commercial cheese manufacturers for its efficiency and reliability.

The Powder segment is expected to witness the fastest growth from 2026 to 2033 due to its longer shelf life, ease of transportation, and flexibility in storage, making it popular among small and medium-scale cheese producers.

• By Applications

On the basis of applications, the rennet market is segmented into Cheese, Dessert, Yogurt, and Others. The Cheese segment accounted for the largest market revenue share in 2025, owing to the global increase in cheese consumption and demand for specialty and artisan varieties.

The Dessert segment is expected to witness the fastest growth from 2026 to 2033, fueled by innovations in dairy-based desserts and increasing consumer preference for high-protein and functional foods containing rennet for texture and quality.

Rennet Market Regional Analysis

• North America dominated the rennet market with the largest revenue share of 38.45% in 2025, driven by high cheese consumption, established dairy industries, and the growing demand for specialty and artisan cheese products

• Consumers in the region highly value product consistency, traditional cheese-making quality, and the availability of diverse rennet types, supporting widespread adoption among commercial cheese producers

• This dominance is further supported by well-developed dairy infrastructure, technological advancements in fermentation processes, and a focus on clean-label and vegetarian alternatives, making rennet a preferred ingredient in both industrial and artisanal cheese production

U.S. Rennet Market Insight

The U.S. rennet market captured the largest revenue share in 2025 within North America, fueled by the increasing consumption of cheese and dairy products and the rising demand for premium and specialty cheeses. Consumers are prioritizing high-quality cheese with authentic texture and flavor, driving the preference for animal-derived and microbial rennet. The growth of industrial-scale cheese manufacturing, along with innovation in fermentation-produced chymosin, further propels the rennet market. Moreover, the rising awareness of vegetarian alternatives and clean-label formulations is expanding the adoption of microbial and vegetable rennet across commercial applications.

Europe Rennet Market Insight

Europe rennet market is expected to witness the fastest growth rate from 2026 to 2033, primarily driven by strong cheese consumption, traditional culinary practices, and stringent food quality regulations. The adoption of microbial and FPC rennet is accelerating as consumers seek vegetarian-friendly and sustainable options. European manufacturers are increasingly integrating rennet into diverse cheese types, including specialty, artisanal, and PDO (protected designation of origin) cheeses. Growth is observed across both industrial and small-scale cheese production, supported by innovation in dairy fermentation technology and growing demand for functional and clean-label products.

U.K. Rennet Market Insight

The U.K. rennet market is expected to witness robust growth from 2026 to 2033, driven by rising cheese consumption and a growing preference for high-quality, authentic dairy products. Increasing interest in artisanal cheese and dairy-based desserts is encouraging the use of both animal-derived and microbial rennet. The region’s well-established dairy industry and demand for clean-label ingredients further stimulate market expansion.

Germany Rennet Market Insight

The Germany rennet market is expected to witness strong growth from 2026 to 2033, fueled by increasing cheese production and innovation in dairy processing technologies.Consumers and manufacturers alike emphasize quality, consistency, and sustainability, promoting microbial and fermentation-produced rennet adoption. Integration of rennet in both industrial-scale and artisanal cheese-making ensures alignment with local culinary traditions and stringent food standards.

Asia-Pacific Rennet Market Insight

The Asia-Pacific rennet market is expected to witness the fastest growth rate from 2026 to 2033, driven by rising cheese consumption, urbanization, and increasing demand for processed and convenience dairy products in countries such as China, India, and Japan. The region’s growing dairy industry, combined with rising disposable incomes and Western dietary influence, is boosting rennet adoption. In addition, APAC’s expanding production of microbial and fermentation-produced rennet ensures availability and affordability for both industrial and artisanal applications

Japan Rennet Market Insight

The Japan rennet market is expected to witness strong growth from 2026 to 2033 due to increasing cheese consumption, adoption of Western dietary habits, and demand for high-quality dairy products. The use of microbial and FPC rennet is rising as consumers prioritize vegetarian-friendly and clean-label options. Integration of rennet in cheese, yogurt, and dessert products is supporting market growth, especially in urban and convenience-focused segments.

China Rennet Market Insight

The China rennet market accounted for the largest market revenue share in Asia-Pacific in 2025, attributed to rising cheese consumption, rapid urbanization, and expansion of the dairy industry. The demand for processed cheese, desserts, and yogurt is driving the adoption of microbial and FPC rennet. Government support for dairy development, increasing Western dietary influence, and availability of cost-effective rennet products are key factors propelling the market in China.

Rennet Market Share

The Rennet industry is primarily led by well-established companies, including:

•  Chr. Hansen Holding A/S (Denmark)
•  Mr Milk (U.K.)
•  Clarion Casein Ltd. (U.K.)
•  Fonterra Co-operative Group Limited (New Zealand)
•  Iran Industrial Enzymes Company (IIEC) Ltd (Iran)
•  SUDERSHAN BIOTECH PRIVATE LIMITED (India)
•  Yangzhou Chemical Co., Ltd. (China)
•  RENCO Group SPA (Italy)
•  Finest Kind (U.S.)
•  ICMC (Italy)
•  Bholebaba.co (India)
•  ASC International (U.K.)
•  Mayasan (Japan)
•  TheCheese Maker (U.S.)
•  Shelburne Farms (U.S.)
•  NUMIDIA BV (Netherlands)
•  Idaho Milk Products (U.S.)
•  LUMITOS AG (Germany)
•  Armor Proteines (France)
•  Enzyme Supplies Limited (U.K.)
•  Calza Clemente s.r.l (Italy)
•  Maysa Food (Brazil)

SKU-64102