Yogurt Market is estimated to witness high growth owing to increasing consumer preference for healthy snacking and surging demand for probiotic yogurt
The yogurt market is estimated to be valued at USD 121.19 billion in 2024, exhibiting a CAGR of 5.3% over the forecast period (2024-2031). Furthermore, the rising popularity of flavored and low fat yogurt variants among millennials is also fueling the market growth.
The yogurt market is driven by the increasing consumer preference for healthy snacking. Yogurt offers nutrients like protein, calcium, vitamins, and probiotics which make it a healthier choice over calorie-dense snacks. The demand for probiotic yogurt is also surging rapidly owing to rising awareness about the gut and digestive health benefits of probiotics. Probiotic yogurt varieties are enriched with live beneficial microorganisms which help regulate digestion and boost immunity. The COVID-19 pandemic has further accelerated the demand as consumers are prioritizing their health and wellness. New product launches catering to the tastes of different regions is also expanding the consumer base. However, stringent quality and safety regulations may pose a challenge to new players.
Increasing Health Awareness Among Consumers is Driving the Yogurt Market
Consumers today are increasingly health-conscious and looking to make healthier food choices. Yogurt is seen as a nutritious option that provides many health benefits such as improving gut and digestive health, strengthening bones, and boosting immunity. The high protein and calcium content of yogurt appeal to those wanting to manage their weight and include more nutrients in their diet. Manufacturers have leveraged this trend by promoting the nutritional aspects of yogurt through detailed labeling and marketing campaigns highlighting various health advantages. This focus on the healthfulness of yogurt has significantly contributed to rising demand.
Growing Popularity of Organic and Natural Products is Fueling Market Growth
Consumption of organic and natural products is surging due to rising environmental awareness and clean labeling trends. Within the dairy aisle, consumers demonstrate a strong preference for yogurt made from organic and natural ingredients without artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. To tap into this lucrative market segment, yogurt producers have launched various organic, Greek, and natural yogurt varieties. They emphasize the minimal processing and simple ingredient lists on packaging. This has resonated well with health-conscious buyers and driven the sales of organic and natural yogurts. Looking ahead, the organic yogurt category especially is poised for exponential expansion riding this consumer shift toward cleaner products.
High Sugar and Calorie Content Poses a Challenge
Despite marketing healthy images, many yogurts are quite high in added sugars and calories. Flavored yogurts in particular can contain excessive amounts of sugar to enhance taste. This creates a dilemma for calorie-counting consumers who want the perceived benefits of yogurt but worry about high sugar intake. Some may opt for alternate snacks instead due to sugar content concerns. Yogurt producers need to address this issue of conflicting nutritional perceptions associated with sweetened varieties. Options with less sugar or new low-calorie recipes could help assuage consumer worries and trigger broader adoption rates.
Rising Dairy and Input Costs can Strain Margins
Inflationary pressures from fluctuating milk prices, packaging materials, transportation, and labor costs constantly challenge yogurt companies. As a dairy product, yogurts are directly impacted by raw material availability and prices in the global milk market. Unpredictable weather patterns affecting yields and short supplies raise input costs for yogurt manufacturers. Increased regulatory norms around animal welfare and environmental sustainability have also driven up compliance expenses. High operational costs shrink margins unless companies undertake optimizing measures or pass on some costs to customers, risking a price backlash in the process. These fluctuating and rising costs pose a serious restraint.
Plant-based Yogurts Present Attractive Opportunities
Growing consumer interest in plant-based foods has opened up possibilities for non-dairy yogurt alternatives. Coconut, almond, soy, and oat yogurts catering to vegan, lactose-intolerant, and flexitarian buyers are gaining ground quickly. The dairy-free segment provides expansion opportunities into new customer demographics. It allows traditional yogurt makers to diversify their product lines and strengthen positioning across different dietary lifestyles. With convincing textures, flavors, and branding, these non-dairy innovations can potentially boost overall category sales by drawing in incremental segments. Plant-based yogurt varieties thus represent an exciting opportunity in today’s evolving food space.
E-commerce is Transforming Go-to-Market Strategies
Rise of e-grocery shopping is reshaping how yogurt producers distribute and sell their products. The pandemic accelerated online grocery adoption across all age groups. Savvy yogurt brands are optimizing their websites, launching dedicated e-stores, and selling directly via leading online marketplaces. Strategic tie-ups with food delivery players further extend reach into new consumer territories. E-commerce has opened new frontiers for targeted marketing, optimized inventory management, and data-driven sales insights. Those able to skillfully harness digital channels gain operational efficiencies and a competitive edge over offline-focused peers. Online channels continue to present promising expansion avenues.
Link: https://www.coherentmarketinsights.com/market-insight/yogurt-market-1461
Key Developments
- In February 2024, Epigamia, a brand recognized for its innovative dairy products, introduced a new variant of Greek yogurt that blends the creaminess of yogurt with the wholesome goodness of oats and a mix of seeds. This product is designed to appeal to health-conscious consumers seeking nutritious and satisfying snack options.
- In April 2024, Danone North America launched REMIX, an innovative line of yogurts and dairy snacks tailored to meet a variety of snacking preferences throughout the day. This launch highlights the increasing trend of consumers looking for convenient, flavorful, and nutritious options for their snacking needs.
- In March 2024, Bored Cow made a significant impact in the dairy alternative market with the launch of its innovative animal-free yogurt, hailed as the "first of its kind." This groundbreaking product is made using fermented proteins, providing a sustainable and ethical alternative to traditional dairy yogurt while maintaining excellent taste and texture.
- In 2023, Skyrrup, a brand known for its dedication to health and wellness, launched a new line of lactose-free Greek yogurt. This innovative product is designed for individuals who are lactose intolerant or seeking to reduce their lactose intake, allowing them to enjoy the rich taste and nutritional benefits of Greek yogurt without compromise.
Key Players
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
