Infant Formula Market Report and Forecast 2025-2034

The infant formula market was valued at USD 68.20 Billion in 2024, driven by the increasing challenges with breastfeeding and increasing awareness regarding the benefits of infant formula across the globe. The market is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 7.31% during the forecast period of 2025-2034 to achieve a value of USD 138.10 Billion by 2034.

Infant Formula Market Overview

Infant formula is a manufactured food designed to support the nutritional needs of infants who are not breastfed or require supplementation. It is typically made from cow’s milk or soy, enriched with essential nutrients such as proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals to mimic breast milk. Infant formulas are available in various forms, including powder, liquid concentrate, and ready-to-feed. The market offers specialized options, such as organic, hypoallergenic, or lactose-free formulas, to cater to specific infant health needs, ensuring proper growth and development during the first year of life.

Infant Formula Market Growth Drivers

Rising Product Launches to Drive Growth in the Market

The preference for organic products is one of the major growth factors impacting the market positively. For instance, Bobbie Labs announced the planned launch of its USDA Organic Whole Milk Formula, set for April 2025. This formula is being marketed as the first of its kind in the US, offering parents a fully organic, whole milk-based infant formula. With growing consumer preference for organic and natural products, this innovation taps into the rising demand for healthier, safer alternatives for infant nutrition. The introduction of this unique formula is expected to boost market growth, as more parents seek premium organic options, further expanding the market share for organic infant formulas during the forecast period.

Regulatory Advancements and Consumer Confidence to Accelerate the Infant Formula Market Size in the Forecast Period

In March 2025, the FDA and the US Department of Health and Human Services launched “Operation Stork Speed,” an initiative aimed at enhancing the safety and availability of infant formulas. The plan includes initiating nutrient reviews and increasing heavy metal testing to ensure formula safety. Furthermore, it encourages manufacturers to clarify product ingredient information for consumers. This initiative is poised to strengthen the market by promoting transparency and consumer trust, which will likely lead to increased demand for compliant, safe, and high-quality infant formulas, driving market growth in the coming years.

Infant Formula Market Trends

The market is witnessing several trends and developments to improve the current scenario. Some of the notable trends are as follows:

Technological Advancements Driving the Market Growth

In March 2022, ByHeart launched an innovative infant formula that includes a patented protein blend closest to breast milk. ByHeart’s new formula uses organic, grass-fed whole milk and incorporates rigorous quality standards, setting a new benchmark in the industry. This advancement aligns with modern nutrition science and breast milk research, addressing a growing demand for more natural, science-backed infant formula solutions. The introduction of such formulas reflects how technological advancements continue to fuel market growth by catering to evolving consumer preferences for better nutrition.

Innovative Product Development to Drive the Infant Formula Market Value

In August 2024, Abbott expanded its Pure Bliss by Similac line with organic, European-made infant formulas. These formulas offer parents high-quality, certified organic ingredients or exclusively sourced Irish milk, catering to specific preferences for natural and premium products. This development underlines the ongoing innovation within the market, as companies strive to meet consumer demand for healthier, more transparent nutritional options. With the focus on quality and sourcing, such product innovations are essential to maintaining market momentum and addressing the diverse needs of modern parents.

Strategic Partnerships to Meet Rising Infant Formula Market Demand

In September 2024, Perrigo Company announced a new brand partnership with Dr. Brown’s to launch the Good Start Dr. Brown's infant formula portfolio. This partnership combines the trusted reputation of Good Start with Dr. Brown's expertise in feeding products, creating a strong value proposition for families. By offering complete nutrition designed for tolerance concerns, the new formula line aims to enhance market appeal and meet growing consumer demand for reliable, health-focused infant nutrition. Such strategic alliances are key to enhancing market value by expanding product offerings and customer reach.

Clinical Advancements to Boost the Infant Formula Market Size

In March 2024, Nestlé Research & Development China, in collaboration with Wyeth Nutrition, launched a clinical study for infant formulas containing human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs). This research aims to validate the benefits of HMOs, including improved respiratory health and reduced antibiotic use in newborns. By demonstrating the clinical advantages of HMOs, Wyeth Nutrition positions itself at the forefront of innovation, addressing health concerns and providing more advanced, evidence-backed nutritional options. These clinical advancements have significant potential to elevate the market, driving demand for scientifically supported infant nutrition products.

Infant Formula Market Segmentation

Global Infant Formula Market Report and Forecast 2025-2034 offers a detailed analysis of the market based on the following segments:

Market Breakup by Type

• Infant Milk
• Follow-on-Milk
• Specialty Baby Milk
• Growing-up Milk

Market Breakup by Ingredient

• Carbohydrate
• Protein
• Minerals
• Vitamins
• Fat
• Others

Market Breakup by Distribution Channel

• Supermarkets and Hypermarkets
• Pharmacies/Medical Stores
• Specialty Stores
• Online Channels

Market Breakup by Region

• North America
• Europe
• Asia Pacific
• Latin America
• Middle East and Africa

Infant Formula Market Share

Infant Milk to Lead the Segmentation by Type

The infant milk segment is projected to hold the largest market share due to its essential role in early-stage infant nutrition. With rising awareness about the importance of proper infant nutrition, particularly in developing countries, demand for infant milk formulas continues to rise. The increasing number of working mothers and higher disposable incomes contribute to this growth, as parents seek convenient and nutritious alternatives to breastfeeding. This segment’s dominance is expected to persist throughout the forecast period, driven by both urbanisation and the ongoing focus on maternal and child health globally.

Carbohydrates to Hold a Significant Infant Formula Market Value for Segmentation by Ingredient

Carbohydrates are anticipated to lead the ingredient segment due to their primary role in providing essential energy to infants and toddlers. Carbohydrates such as lactose and maltodextrin are commonly used in infant formulas to ensure proper growth and development. As consumer awareness about the nutritional needs of young children rises, demand for carbohydrate-rich formulas designed for an energy boost will continue to grow. This trend is supported by the increasing preference for instant formula products, which promise convenience while delivering a balanced and energy-dense nutrient profile, driving market growth during the forecast period.

Supermarkets and Hypermarkets to Lead the Infant Formula Market Share by Distribution Channel

Supermarkets and hypermarkets are expected to lead the market by distribution channel due to their wide product availability and high footfall of health-conscious consumers. These retail outlets offer a range of instant formula options, making it easier for parents to access a variety of infant and toddler nutrition products. The growth of modern retail formats, combined with promotions and consumer trust in these stores, supports the dominance of supermarkets and hypermarkets. As disposable incomes rise, especially in developing regions, this distribution channel is expected to further expand, driving significant market growth.

Infant Formula Market Analysis by Region

North America will likely hold the largest market share due to its high demand for instant formula products, driven by a strong healthcare infrastructure and a focus on child nutrition. The region also has a high number of working parents seeking convenient feeding solutions. Europe follows, with an increasing preference for premium, organic formulas. Asia Pacific is growing rapidly due to rising disposable incomes and urbanisation, particularly in China and India. Latin America and Middle East and Africa show potential but face slower market penetration due to varying economic conditions.

Leading Players in the Infant Formula Market

The key features of the market report comprise patent analysis, clinical trials analysis, funding and investment analysis, and strategic initiatives by the leading players. The major companies in the market are as follows:

Nestle S.A

Nestle S.A, headquartered in Switzerland, is a global leader in the infant formula market. Its popular brands, such as NAN and Gerber, focus on providing scientifically backed nutrition to support infant growth and development. Nestlé invests heavily in research and development to innovate and improve its formula offerings. The company emphasizes quality, safety, and sustainability across its product lines. Nestlé’s strong global presence and trusted reputation make it a dominant player in the competitive infant nutrition sector.

Danone S.A

Danone S.A, based in France, is a major multinational company offering a wide range of infant formula products under brands like Aptamil and Nutricia. The company focuses on early life nutrition, using cutting-edge science to develop formulas that closely mimic breast milk. Danone promotes health and wellness through sustainably sourced ingredients and rigorous quality standards. With a strong commitment to research, Danone aims to provide formulas that meet the evolving needs of infants and their parents worldwide.

Arla Foods amba

Arla Foods amba, headquartered in Denmark, is a farmer-owned cooperative known for its premium dairy products, including infant formula under brands like Arla Baby&Me. The company emphasises natural, high-quality ingredients and sustainable production practices. Arla leverages its strong expertise in dairy science to create nutritional products that support infant health and development. With a growing global presence, Arla is committed to offering safe, traceable, and responsibly produced infant formulas that meet the demands of modern consumers.

Royal FrieslandCampina

Royal FrieslandCampina, a Dutch multinational cooperative, is a key player in the infant formula market. The company produces well-known brands like Friso, focusing on delivering high-quality, science-based nutrition for infants. FrieslandCampina maintains strict quality control from farm to formula, ensuring safety and nutritional excellence. It invests heavily in research to understand early childhood nutrition needs and continues to expand its global reach. Sustainability, innovation, and farmer partnerships are central to the company’s approach to infant nutrition.

Reckitt Benckiser Group plc

Reckitt Benckiser Group plc, based in the United Kingdom, has established a strong presence in the infant formula market through its brand Enfamil, acquired via Mead Johnson Nutrition. The company prioritizes research-driven product development to support infant health and cognitive development. Reckitt Benckiser places great emphasis on quality, safety, and innovation in its nutritional offerings. With a growing portfolio and commitment to responsible practices, Reckitt aims to meet the diverse dietary needs of infants across global markets.

Other key players in the market include Abbott, The Kraft Heinz Company, Bellamy’s Australia Limited, Perrigo Company plc, and Yili Group.

Key Questions Answered in the Infant Formula Market

• What was the global infant formula market value in 2024?
• What is the global infant formula market forecast outlook for 2025-2034?
• What is market segmentation based on type?
• What is market segmentation based on ingredients?
• What is market segmentation based on the distribution channel?
• What are the major factors aiding the infant formula market demand?
• How has the market performed so far, and how is it anticipated to perform in the coming years?
• What are the market's major drivers, opportunities, and restraints?
• What are the major infant formula market trends?
• Which type will lead the market segment?
• Which ingredients will lead the market segment?
• Which distribution channel will lead the market segment?
• Who are the key players involved in the global infant formula market?
• What is the patent landscape of the market?
• What are the current unmet needs and challenges in the market?
• How are partnerships, collaborations, mergers, and acquisitions among the key market players shaping the market dynamics?

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