YOGURT MARKET ANALYSIS
The yogurt market is estimated to be valued at USD 121.19 Bn in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 173.97 Bn by 2031, exhibiting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.3% from 2024 to 2031.
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The yogurt market is expected to witness significant growth over the forecast period. Factors such as increasing health consciousness among consumers, rising disposable income, and growing demand for probiotic yogurt products are expected to drive the market growth. The market is also expected to benefit from rising product innovations targeted for health-conscious consumers. Major players are introducing new products fortified with nutrients and offering customizable options to attract more consumers. However, the availability of substitutes, such as smoothies and oats, may restrict the market growth to some extent. Nevertheless, the growing popularity of Greek yogurt and focus towards advertising the health benefits of consuming yogurt are expected to create opportunities for major players over the coming years.
Health and wellness trends
The growing importance placed on health and wellness is driving many consumers to opt for yogurt as a snack or meal replacement. In recent years, people have become increasingly health-conscious and are actively seeking out options that are nutritious, yet provide enjoyment. Yogurt fits this need nicely as it is widely considered a nourishing choice, packed with protein, calcium, and probiotics. This focus on wellness has been spurred by rising rates of preventable diseases linked to poor diet and lifestyle. People now understand that food choices greatly impact long-term health outcomes. With obesity and related conditions on the rise, consumers want to make small changes to their daily routine that can yield big rewards over time. Choosing yogurt over other snack foods seen as less healthy is one straightforward switch that is easy to maintain habitually. Its protein content also leaves eaters feeling fuller for longer, curbing between-meal cravings and unnecessary calorie intake.
Consumers are also more informed about gut health and the role probiotics play. Yogurt's live and active cultures have been proven to promote digestive regularity and immune function. Popular science reporting has brought awareness of the gut-brain connection and how maintaining a balanced microbiome influences mental wellness. The fact that yogurt delivers probiotics with each serving is a compelling reason for its selection in today's health-centric marketplace. People see consuming it as an easy self-care strategy to support both physical and psychological health in one snack or meal.
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Out of home consumption patterns
Changing lifestyles have shifted how and where consumers eat certain foods. Traditional breakfast and lunch occasions are losing prominence as flexible work schedules challenge conventions and eating on the go increases. Yogurt is well-suited to benefit from these new consumption patterns. Its portable size and long shelf life in diverse temperatures allow yogurt to seamlessly transition wherever daily routines take people. On bustling mornings when time is scarce, grabbing a tub of yogurt provides a filling start to the day without fuss. Its protein sustains energy levels far better than many other quick breakfast alternatives like pastries or cereal. Lunch has likewise become a more mobile event; yogurt makes the perfect packed option when heading out and about for midday meals replacing sandwiches that can get messy or spoil. Snacking has evolved into a significant consumer behavior with continuous nibbling replacing a few large set meals. Yogurt perfectly satisfies these mini feedings with single-serve sizes in cute packaging whether enjoyed alone or used as a dip for pretzels and fruit. The accessibility and variety of flavors additionally means it fits any craving or Dietary preference on the go.
Dozens of national chains as well as independent cafes now feature built-in yogurt stations, parfaits and smoothies as prepared items. Customizable toppings make each serving a fun experience. Eating on the go is facilitated here, in transportation hubs or delivered as ready meals from expanding dark store fulfillment models. This migration of yogurt consumption away from rigid breakfast/lunch schedules and into flexible lifestyles anywhere will remain a sustained driver of growth. Its portability and nutrient density make it irreplaceable given changing demographics and busy modern routines relying more heavily on snacks, meals out, and prepared foods.
Key Takeaways from Analyst:
The yogurt market is expected to witness steady growth in the forecast period driven by growing health and wellness trends among consumers. The popularity of yogurt as a healthy snack will drive stronger demand. However, market growth could be restrained by the availability of alternative dairy and plant-based products that are also considered healthy options.
North America currently dominates the global yogurt market owing to high consumer awareness about the health benefits of probiotic yogurt. Europe is also a major region supported by tradition of yogurt consumption and innovations in flavors and formats. Meanwhile, Asia Pacific is likely to be the fastest growing regional market in the coming years. Especially, nations like China and India are estimated to contribute significantly to the global volumes due to evolving dietary habits and growing middle-class populations.
From a segmentation perspective, spoonable yogurt is anticipated to remain the largest product type. However, the drinkable yogurt segment may emerge as the new bright spot in the market. In terms of flavors, the fruit and vanilla varieties will continue holding the major shares but new exotic flavors could gain ground among millennials and Gen Z consumers interested in distinct tastes. The organic yogurt space also provides opportunities for artisanal and health-oriented brands to target quality-focused customers.
Market Challenges: Increasing health consciousness among consumers
One of the major challenges currently being faced by the yogurt market is increasing health consciousness among consumers. In recent years, there has been a significant rise in the number of people adopting healthy lifestyles and focusing on wellness. Many consumers are shifting towards plant-based, low sugar, and organic food products. This is posing a threat to conventional yogurt products that are higher in sugar content. Yogurt manufacturers will need to innovate and come up with new formulations that can cater to this demand for healthy options while also maintaining taste. Producing low sugar or sugar-free varieties without compromising on flavor will be a big technical challenge. They will also have to market these new products effectively and educate consumers about the nutritional benefits to gain their trust and attract new customers. The yogurt market will need to closely monitor changing consumption patterns and proactively adapt their offerings accordingly to stay relevant.
Market Opportunities: Growing demand for probiotic and gut health products
The growing demand for probiotic and gut health products presents a major opportunity for the yogurt market. In recent times, more people have become aware of the importance of maintaining a healthy gut microbiome and its various health benefits. This has led to a rise in demand for fermented dairy foods like yogurt that are a good source of live active cultures and probiotics. Yogurt manufacturers can capitalize on this opportunity by developing new probiotic strains with specific health positioning and enhancing the marketing of existing products. They can also explore co-branding opportunities with digestive supplement brands to leverage each other's customer bases. Another avenue is the customization trend - offering consumers the ability to customize yogurt according to their individual probiotic requirements through options like strain selection. This allows for further marketing of the gut health attribute and targeting of niche customer segments.
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Insights by product type: Traditional Roots
In terms of product type, traditional yogurt is expected to contribute 44.5% share of the market in 2024, owing to its well-established roots and popularity. Traditional yogurt is favored for its familiar taste and texture that consumers are accustomed to. It remains the top choice for those looking for a basic yogurt without extra flavors or mix-ins. The consistent yet simple flavor profile of traditional yogurt appeals to those who prefer the plain yogurt experience. Additionally, many consider traditional yogurt to be the healthier option compared to flavored varieties, as it contains fewer sugars and calorie additions. Traditional yogurt acts as a convenient snack or breakfast item for those watching their weight or following specific diets. Its widespread popularity stems from familiar recipes passed down through generations. Traditional yogurt also serves as a versatile ingredient in cooking and baking applications due to its mild taste. Overall, traditional yogurt maintains its leading position in the product type segment through consumer brand loyalty to this time-tested classic.
Insights by packaging: On-the-Go Options
In terms of packaging, cup/tub is expected to contribute 55.6% share of the market in 2024 as it fulfills the growing consumer demand for portable and easy-to-consume yogurt options. Cups/tubs allow for yogurt to be enjoyed anywhere without messy spills or leaks. Their individual, single-serve sizes in reusable containers suit busy modern lifestyles where eating on-the-go is commonplace. Cups/tubs eliminate the need to find a spoon, as many varieties include peelable lids that can be consumed straight from the packaging. The resealability of cup/tub packaging also keeps leftovers fresh longer versus alternatives like bottles. They are a top choice for lunchboxes, workplace snacks or transportation. Cups/tubs boast ideal portion control as well, addressing health-conscious consumer interests. Overall, cup/tub packaging answers demands for quick, transportable and neat yogurt varieties ideal for fast-paced daily routines.
Insights by Distribution Channel: Retail Reinforcement
In terms of distribution channel, supermarkets/hypermarkets is expected to contribute 50.4% share of the market in 2024, owing to their extensive grocery offerings and widespread locations. Supermarkets serve as one-stop-shops for a variety of needs including groceries, and their expansive dairy/refrigerated sections stock all major yogurt brands. With supermarket giants reinforcing private label yogurt brands as well, house brands have become a cost-competitive option. Additionally, loyalty programs and sales promotions in supermarkets incentivize return shopper visits. Their large footprints allow for expansive yogurt displays along with complementary ingredients like fruit and granola for added sales. Supermarkets also provide the ability to compare yogurt varieties side-by-side during shopping trips. Overall, with supermarket reach extending into most neighborhoods nationwide, their distribution channels reinforce yogurt as an essential grocery staple.
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North America has emerged as the dominant region in the global yogurt market. The region is expected to account for 38.7% of the market share in 2024. With the U.S. accounting for the largest share, the North America yogurt market enjoys strong consumer demand and presence of major players in the industry. The large consumer base has developed a strong preference for Greek and premium yogurt varieties over the years. This has benefited players like Chobani, Fage, and Dannon who have significant operations in the region.
Asia Pacific has shown potential to be the fastest growing yogurt market. Countries like India and China have the highest populations which presents a massive untapped opportunity. Leading global brands have increased focus on these emerging markets through joint-ventures, acquisitions, and by introducing smaller pack sizes to attract price-sensitive customers.
Yogurt Market Report Coverage
| Report Coverage | Details | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Base Year: | 2023 | Market Size in 2024: | US$ 121.19 Bn |
| Historical Data for: | 2019 To 2023 | Forecast Period: | 2024 To 2031 |
| Forecast Period 2024 to 2031 CAGR: | 5.3% | 2031 Value Projection: | US$ 173.97 Bn |
| Geographies covered: |
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| Segments covered: |
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| Companies covered: |
General Mills Inc., Nestle SA, Danone, Yakult Honsha Co. Ltd., Ultima Foods Inc., Chobani LLC, Sodiaal, Muller UK & Ireland Group LLP, Kraft Foods Group Inc., Rainy Lanes Dairy Foods Ltd., Schreiber Dynamix, Nanci's Frozen Yogurt, China Mengniu Dairy Company Ltd, Inner Mongolia Yili Industrial Group Co. Ltd, Yakult Honsha Co. Ltd, BV Dairy, Alston Dairy, Tims Dairy, Arla Foods amba, and Yeo Valley |
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| Restraints & Challenges: |
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*Definition: The yogurt market provides a variety of probiotic dairy products that are delicious, nutritious, and easy to consume on the go. This market offers different types of yogurt like Greek yogurt, regular set yogurt, probiotic yogurt, low-fat yogurt, high protein yogurt, flavored yogurt, and others. Products are available in portable individual portions as well as family size containers. The yogurt market aims to offer healthy breakfast and snack options made with high quality ingredients to meet the demands of health-conscious consumers.
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About Author
Sakshi Suryawanshi is a Research Consultant with 6 years of extensive experience in market research and consulting. She is proficient in market estimation, competitive analysis, and patent analysis. Sakshi excels in identifying market trends and evaluating competitive landscapes to provide actionable insights that drive strategic decision-making. Her expertise helps businesses navigate complex market dynamics and achieve their objectives effectively.
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